Types of Pet Lizards (25 Species)
Lizards are a popular choice among exotic pet enthusiasts. They offer a unique pet experience, especially for individuals with allergies to animal fur or those who cannot have pets roaming freely in their homes. Lizards are not only fascinating to watch, but they also have distinct personalities, can be handled, bond with their owners, and are relatively easy to care for. With nearly 5,000 lizard species worldwide, it can be challenging to determine which ones are suitable as pets. In this article, we will explore 25 types of pet lizards suitable for beginners and more experienced reptile owners.
1. Green Anole:
Green anoles are native to the southeastern United States. They have a lifespan of 2-4 years, but some can live up to 8 years or more. These lizards grow to a length of 5-8 inches, with females being slightly smaller at around 6 inches. Green anoles are diurnal, making them ideal for individuals who prefer a pet that is active during the daytime. However, they can be quite shy and easily spooked, so it may take some time for them to get used to their owner’s presence or being handled.
2. Leopard Gecko:
Leopard geckos are a favorite among lizard enthusiasts and one of the most popular pet lizards. They come in various morphs, offering a wide range of colors and patterns to choose from. When properly cared for, leopard geckos can have a long lifespan of up to 25 years. Native to Asia, they thrive in dry environments. Leopard geckos are an excellent choice for beginners as they require minimal enclosure setup and maintenance compared to other lizards. Although they can be skittish initially, they can become comfortable with their owners over time through patience and gentle handling.
3. Crested Gecko:
Crested geckos are native to southern New Caledonia and were thought to be extinct until their rediscovery in 1994. These lizards have a lifespan of 15-20 years. What sets crested geckos apart is their unique appearance, with what appears to be eyelashes and cute toe pads. While they may not be as vibrant as leopard geckos, crested geckos come in various morphs and colors. They are known for their easy-going nature and require less care than other lizard species, making them ideal for beginners.
4. Bearded Dragon:
Native to Australia, bearded dragons are a popular choice for lizard enthusiasts. The ones available for sale are typically bred in captivity since Australia banned their export in the 1960s. Bearded dragons have become one of the most common pet lizards. They are known for their unique appearance, with spiky scales and a throat pouch that expands and darkens during certain behaviors. Bearded dragons have a friendly disposition and are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced reptile owners.
5. Blue-Tongued Skink:
Blue-tongued skinks are another popular pet lizard choice. These lizards are native to Australia. As their name suggests, they have a distinctive blue tongue, which they use as a defense mechanism. Blue-tongued skinks are relatively large and can grow up to 18-24 inches in length. They require a larger enclosure and a diet that includes both animal protein and vegetables. Blue-tongued skinks are known for their docile nature and are considered one of the best pet lizards for handling.
6. African Fat-Tailed Gecko:
African fat-tailed geckos are closely related to leopard geckos and share similar care requirements. They are native to West Africa and have a lifespan of 10-20 years. These geckos are known for their thick fat tails and can come in various morphs and colors. African fat-tailed geckos have a calmer temperament compared to leopard geckos, making them a suitable choice for individuals who prefer a more relaxed pet lizard.
7. Chinese Water Dragon:
Chinese water dragons, native to Southeast Asia, are known for their beautiful appearance and graceful behavior. These lizards require a larger enclosure with ample swimming space, as they are semi-aquatic. Chinese water dragons can grow up to 3 feet in length and have a lifespan of 10-15 years. While they can be skittish and may take some time to become comfortable with handling, they are generally docile and can make wonderful pets for experienced reptile owners.
8. Uromastyx:
Uromastyx lizards, also known as spiny-tailed lizards, are native to the Middle East and North Africa. They have a unique appearance, with spiky tails and colorful scales. Uromastyx lizards are herbivores, primarily eating a diet of leafy greens and vegetables. They require a desert-like enclosure with proper heating and UVB lighting. Uromastyx lizards are generally docile but can be shy and take time to acclimate to their new environment.
9. Gargoyle Gecko:
Gargoyle geckos, native to New Caledonia, are known for their fascinating appearance and unique traits. They have a lifespan of 15-20 years and can come in various morphs and colors. Gargoyle geckos have the ability to regenerate their tails if they lose them, much like their close relative, the crested gecko. These geckos are relatively easy to care for and can be handled with proper acclimation.
10. Ball Python:
While not typically classified as lizards, ball pythons are often included in the reptile pet category. These snakes are docile and have a relatively small size compared to other python species. Ball pythons are native to West and Central Africa and have a lifespan of 20-30 years. They require a proper enclosure setup with heating and humidity control. Ball pythons make excellent pets for individuals interested in snakes and are known for their calm demeanor.
11. Tokay Gecko:
Tokay geckos are native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand, and are known for their vibrant colors and distinctive vocalization. These lizards received their name from the sound of their call, which sounds like “to-kay.” Tokay geckos have a lifespan of 10-20 years and can grow up to 12-14 inches in length. They are relatively aggressive and not recommended for beginners. However, experienced reptile owners who appreciate their unique characteristics may enjoy keeping Tokay geckos as pets.
12. Blue Iguana:
Blue iguanas are native to Grand Cayman and are considered one of the most endangered lizard species in the world. They have a striking blue coloration and are known for their size, with males growing up to 5 feet in length. Blue iguanas require a spacious enclosure with adequate heating and UVB lighting. They can have a challenging temperament and are generally not recommended as pets for beginners. Due to their endangered status, it is important to ensure the source of a captive blue iguana is from a responsible and ethical breeder.
13. Fire Skink:
Fire skinks are native to West Africa and are named for their fiery reddish-orange coloration. They have a lifespan of 10-15 years and are relatively small, growing up to 6-8 inches in length. Fire skinks require a moist tropical enclosure with proper heating and hiding spots. While they may be shy initially, they can become accustomed to handling with proper care. Fire skinks are a unique choice for lizard enthusiasts who appreciate their vibrant appearance.
14. Frilled Dragon:
Frilled dragons, also known as frilled-neck lizards, are native to northern Australia and southern New Guinea. They are named for the large frill around their necks, which they use as a display when threatened or during courtship rituals. Frilled dragons have a lifespan of 10-20 years and can grow up to 2-3 feet in length. They require a spacious enclosure with branches and foliage for climbing. Frilled dragons can have a defensive temperament and are best suited for experienced reptile owners.
15. Argentine Black and White Tegu:
Argentine black and white tegus are large lizards native to South America. They are known for their striking black and white coloration and can grow up to 3-4 feet in length. Tegus require spacious enclosures with proper heating and UVB lighting. They are omnivorous, meaning their diet consists of both animal and plant matter. Argentine black and white tegus are intelligent and have a naturally curious personality. While they can be docile, they require experienced handling and proper socialization to prevent aggression.
16. Green Iguana:
Green iguanas, native to Central and South America, are one of the most recognizable lizard species. They can grow to impressive sizes, with some males reaching up to 6-7 feet in length. Green iguanas require large enclosures with ample climbing opportunities and UVB lighting. They are herbivores, primarily eating a diet of leafy greens and vegetables. Green iguanas require careful handling and socialization from a young age to prevent aggressive behaviors as they mature.
17. Day Gecko:
Day geckos, native to Madagascar and neighboring islands, are named for their bright colors and diurnal behavior. These geckos have a lifespan of 10-15 years and are relatively small, growing up to 4-6 inches in length. Day geckos require enclosures that replicate their natural tropical habitat, including proper temperature and humidity levels. They are known for their arboreal nature and are excellent climbers. Day geckos can be skittish and may not tolerate frequent handling but can be observed and enjoyed from a distance.
18. Red Ackie Monitor:
Red ackie monitors, also known as spiny-tailed monitors, are native to Australia. These lizards have a beautiful appearance, with vibrant red coloration and striking patterns. Red ackie monitors are smaller than other monitor species, growing up to 2-3 feet in length. They require a spacious enclosure with proper heating and UVB lighting. Red ackie monitors are known for their intelligent and active nature. While they can be skittish initially, they can become comfortable with their owners through regular and gentle handling.
19. Green Tree Monitor:
Green tree monitors, native to New Guinea, are arboreal lizards known for their stunning green coloration and unique body shape. They have a lifespan of 10-20 years and can grow up to 3-4 feet in length. Green tree monitors require a tall and spacious enclosure with branches and foliage for climbing. They thrive in high humidity environments with proper temperature gradients. Green tree monitors can be challenging to care for and are best suited for experienced reptile owners who can provide the specific requirements they need.
20. Panther Chameleon:
Panther chameleons are native to Madagascar and are renowned for their ability to change color. These lizards have a lifespan of 5-7 years and can grow up to 12-18 inches in length. Panther chameleons require enclosures that replicate their arboreal habitat, including proper lighting, humidity, and foliage for climbing. They are insectivores, predominantly feeding on a diet of live insects. Panther chameleons are known for their unique and captivating appearance but can be challenging to care for due to their specific husbandry requirements.
21. Blue Tree Monitor:
Blue tree monitors, native to the northern Philippines, are known for their stunning blue coloration and arboreal nature. They have a lifespan of 10-15 years and can grow up to 3-4 feet in length. Blue tree monitors require a tall and spacious enclosure with ample climbing opportunities and UVB lighting. They are territorial and can display aggressive behaviors. Due to their specific requirements and advanced care needs, blue tree monitors are best suited for experienced reptile owners.
22. Sailfin Dragon:
Sailfin dragons, also known as sailfin lizards or sailfin water dragons, are native to Southeast Asia. These lizards have a unique appearance, with long bodies, impressive sail-like dorsal fins, and strong hind legs for swimming. Sailfin dragons have a lifespan of 10-15 years and can grow up to 3-4 feet in length. They require spacious enclosures with both land and water areas, as they are semi-aquatic. Sailfin dragons can be shy and may take time to acclimate to their new environment.
23. Monkey-Tail Skink:
Monkey-tail skinks, native to Australia, are named for their prehensile tails that resemble a monkey’s tail. These skinks have a lifespan of 10-15 years and can grow up to 20-24 inches in length. Monkey-tail skinks require enclosures that replicate their natural environment, including ample hiding spots and climbing opportunities. They are omnivores, feeding on a diet of insects, fruits, and leafy greens. Monkey-tail skinks are generally docile and can be handled with care.
24. Knight Anole:
Knight anoles, native to Cuba and the Bahamas, are large and colorful lizards known for their dominant and sometimes aggressive behavior. These anoles have a lifespan of 5-10 years and can grow up to 12-20 inches in length. Knight anoles require spacious enclosures with adequate heating and humidity control. They are insectivores, primarily feeding on live insects. Due to their aggressive nature, knight anoles are best suited for experienced reptile owners who can provide proper handling and socialization.
25. Green Tree Python:
Green tree pythons, native to New Guinea and Indonesia, are known for their vibrant green coloration and unique resting coil. These pythons have a lifespan of 15-20 years and can grow up to 4-6 feet in length. Green tree pythons require enclosures that replicate their arboreal habitat, including proper heating and humidity levels. They are primarily arboreal, spending most of their time coiled in tree branches. While not recommended for beginners, experienced reptile owners who are prepared to meet their specific care requirements can enjoy keeping a green tree python as a pet.
Conclusion:
Owning a pet lizard can be a rewarding and fascinating experience. With proper care and attention to their specific needs, these 25 types of pet lizards offer a range of options for beginners to experienced reptile owners. It is essential to research and understand the specific requirements of each lizard species before bringing one into your home. Additionally, ensuring the lizard is obtained from a reputable