What Should I Keep My Armadillo Lizard In?

Native to South Africa, armadillo lizards can be found in the country's Western Cape province. The lizard lives in dry and rocky places. When threatened, it rolls itself up like an armadillo, which is where it gets its name. People may also keep armadillo lizards as a pets. These lizards can live in a tank or terrarium with a minimum volume of 29 gallons, according Herp Hangout, a reptile and amphibian website. Cover the tank with a screened lid to ensure that air exchange can take place.

  1. Tank Environment

    • Place about 3 inches of sand at the bottom of the tank as substrate. Place some rocks together in the tank so that the lizard can hide in the crevices when it wants shade. The rocks can also function as a basking area. Add a couple of xerophytes in the tank. Ensure that the xerophytes are the non-spiny variety, such as aloe, to prevent injury to the lizard. These xerophytes are similar to the plants found in the armadillo lizard's natural environment. Replace the substrate at least once a month to maintain a clean environment in the tank. Use a screened lid to cover the tank. Refrain from using a glass top as it will stop air circulation and prevent the entry of UVB rays into the tank.

    Lighting

    • Armadillo lizards require UVB lighting in their tanks to synthesize vitamin D3, which helps the lizard absorb calcium. Keep the light 18 inches from the lizard and ensure that it gets a minimum of 10 hours to a maximum of 12 hours of exposure to the UVB light.

    Temperature

    • Maintain daytime temperature in the tank at about 85 degrees Fahrenheit but make sure that the basking area has a temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit, according to Herp Hangout. The tank temperature can be maintained with the help of spotlights, while the basking area temperature can be attained with the help of heat rocks. It is advisable to have a thermometer handy to ensure that the daytime temperature is maintained in the tank. During the night, lower the tank temperature to around 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

    Food and Water

    • In captivity, feed your armadillo lizard insects, such as crickets, mealworms and waxworms. Dust the insects with calcium powder to meet the calcium needs of the lizard. Feed adults every other day and juveniles twice daily. Keep a bowl of water in the tank and one area of the substrate constantly moist, as armadillo lizards can also absorb water through their skin.