The uromastyx geyri can grow to an adult length of ten to twelve inches from head to tail. The most popular type of home for a reptile such as a uromastyx is a large aquarium tank. At minimum, a 36”x18”x18” (or a 40 gallon breeder) tank needed for an adult yellow uromastyx. A substrate, such as millet, aspen or cypress, should cover the bottom few inches of the tank.

When caring for a uromastyx, one of the most important things to pay close attention to is their heat requirement. Reptiles, being cold-blooded, will regulate their own internal temperature as long as their enclosure has both a hot end and a slightly “cooler” end. As the uromastyx is native to extremely hot climates of northern Africa and the Middle East, the warmer end of the tank must be around 110º-115º, while the cooler end can remain around 80º-90º during the day. They will also need UVA/UVB which is crucial for proper vitamin D production and calcium metabolism. This can be achieved with heat lamps and UVA/UVB lights which should be placed above the hot end of the enclosure and left on at all times during the day. Humidity is not as crucial an element as heat, as they are a desert species, but a bit is still needed; it is good to aim for about 30%-50% humidity inside the terrarium. Lastly, provide the uro with a couple of branches or rock structures which will allow them to climb closer to the heat source.

On the cooler end of the tank, have a hide for them to retreat to at night time and provide a sense of security. A half log or rock hide will work nicely. Also, always provide a water dish. Even though the desert-dwelling uromastyx do not require a great deal of hydration outside of the vegetables they consume, it is a good idea to provide your pet with water as an option anyway.

One wonderful thing about the uromastyx is that they are largely vegetarian, and most of their daily meal requirements can be found right in your local grocery store. They need to be given a large handful of salad daily, which can consist of a base of leafy greens like lettuce, bok choy, dandelion greens, and escarole. You should also supply them with daily additions of carrots or red pepper, as well as the occasional piece of fruit, such as strawberry or apple. Avoid citrus fruits, such as lemon or orange. Lastly, dust the salad with a vitamin/calcium powder at each feeding to ensure proper absorption of nutrients.

Uromastyx geyri rarely bite, and generally have calm dispositions. However, a threatened uromastyx may use their tail as a whip to try and deter enemies. If you grab a uromastyx and they begin lashing their tail, they are most likely agitated or frightened – try and see what may be bothering them to fix the situation. (The tail is not very sharp and therefore harmless, but the behavior shows a fear reaction that should be addressed.) It is possible, in this situation, the uromastyx is not used to being handled, in which case all you need is some patience to teach them to trust you. Always approach your uromastyx slowly and with care not to grab them too tightly. When handling them, try and support the midsection. You can also allow the uromastyx to walk slowly across your hand, while you catch him with the other hand.

A uromastyx, though not the most common pet reptile due to their high heat requirements, can be a wonderfully rewarding and entertaining pet. They are also a great option for those who are squeamish about feeding their pet live food, such as crickets or worms, as they eat mostly vegetables. A uromastyx geyri that is accustomed to being handled can make a good pet for children, provided an adult is able to observe all interactions and help with most of the care.

Ailments that befall reptiles include calcium deprivation, lack of sufficient heat, or external injuries from falls or improper handling. To avoid any of these issues, it is absolutely imperative that the animal’s owner provide adequate heat, light, space, and nutrition.

With any reptile, there is a risk of exposure to salmonella. It is important to always wash hands carefully after handling any animal, especially when children are involved. Never let a child put their pet anywhere near their mouth. It is common for reptiles to have a low number of internal parasites that do not normally pose any risk to humans. In times of stress, the reptile’s immune system may weaken and allow the parasites to overpopulate, posing a risk to the animal’s health.

As with any pet, it is of the utmost importance to seek veterinary care at the first sign of something wrong. We at Fauna recommend the Center for Avian and Exotic Medicine (see below for contact information). We are always happy to take your calls with any questions, and we will try to do our best to help you, but we are unable to provide all the necessary services a veterinarian can.

Fauna
265 West 87th Street (at Broadway)
New York, NY 10024
(212) 877-2473
faunanyc.com
faunacrew@gmail.com

The Center for Avian and Exotic Medicine
562 Columbus Avenue (at 88th Street)
New York, NY 10024
(212) 501-8750