Armadillo Lizard
The Armadillo Lizard (Cordylus cataphractus) is a spinytailed lizard endemic to
desert areas of southern
Africa. It is also known as the Armadillo Girdled Lizard or the Armadillo Spiny-tailed Lizard. This brown-coloured lizard has a distinctive defensive posture, in which it grabs its tail and curls into a ring. Its size ranges from 16 to 21
cm (6½ to 8½
in) in length. In
South Africa, trade in Armadillo Lizards is illegal.
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Armadillo Lizard
Cordylus spp.
General info:
Armadillo lizards typically tame very easily. For this reason, they are often recommended as ideal childrens' pets. These unique "armored" reptiles are also livebearers and readily breed in captivity.
Size:
Adult length up to 10".
Temperature/Humidity:
Ideal daytime temperature for these lizards should range between 70º and 85º. Additionally, a basking lamp should be used to maintain a local temperature of 95 to 105º. Night time temperature should remain between 65º and 75º. The humidity for these lizards should be kept at or near 45%.
Lighting:
All diurnal (mainly active during the day) lizards require 8-10 hours of ultraviolet lighting to maintain good health. The use of a timer will assist in maintaining an accurate schedule of light periods.
Feeding/Watering:
Armadillo lizards are insectivorous (eat mainly insects). Insects should be dusted with a vitamin/calcium powder. Suggested insects are: crickets, mealworms, superworms, and waxworms. A shallow water bowl is necessary to keep these lizards in optimum health. Water should be changed daily.
Habitat/Housing:
Individuals can be maintained in a 20 gallon aquarium. A screen lid is essential for proper air exchange. Armadillo lizards are best kept singularly. However, for multiple pets, increase habitat size accordingly to ensure each lizard has plenty of space to move about and not interfere with tankmates. An undertank heater should be placed on the same end of the tank as the basking lamp. Multiple climbing branches are necessary as well as a shelter for hiding, especially if multiple pets are in the same enclosure. Misting the habitat occasionally will help maintain proper humidity levels and allow for these lizards to intake water in a manner to which they are accustomed.
Substrate (Bedding):
2" to 3" inches of Repti-Bark and Bed-Beast is recommended for armadillo lizard terrariums. Cork bark can be added as low hiding areas.
Responsible pet ownership begins on the trip home!
For the best health and well being of your new pet, it is important to remember to take it directly home. If you have more shopping or errands to complete, consider picking up your pet last. This will ensure the animal encounters the least amount of stress possible. Have the new terrarium completely set up before bringing your new friend "home". Additionally, make sure your new family member is allowed enough time to adjust to its new home. Wait three or four days before attempting to handle your pet and always supervise children when they interact with pets.