How to Keep a Happy Lizard


At Tails, Beaks and Feets, we celebrate ​our love for all animals, including our ​scaly friends.

World Lizard Day is the perfect ​occasion to shed light on the ​wonderful world of lizard care and ​provide essential tips to ensure your ​pet lizard is happy and healthy.

Whether you're a seasoned lizard ​owner or new to the reptile scene, ​these tips will help you create a ​comfortable and enriching ​environment for your pet.

Different lizard species in their natural environments, showcasing their diverse needs.

Understanding your lizard's needs

A well-decorated lizard enclosure with proper lighting, plants, and hiding spots.

Lizards are fascinating creatures with specific ​needs that differ from traditional pets like cats ​and dogs.

Understanding these needs is the first step to ​providing excellent care.

Lizards require a controlled environment, a ​balanced diet and mental stimulation to thrive.


One of the most crucial aspects of lizard care is ​creating an appropriate habitat.

This includes the right enclosure size, ​temperature, humidity levels and substrates. ​Each lizard species has unique requirements, ​so research your specific type of lizard to ​provide the best environment.


Creating the perfect habitat

Enclosure: The size of the enclosure should be suitable for the lizard's ​size and activity level. Larger lizards need more space to move ​around and explore.


Temperature: Lizards are ectothermic ( cold-blooded reptile) and rely ​on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. Provide ​a temperature gradient within the enclosure to allow your lizard to ​move between warmer and cooler areas.


Humidity: Different lizard species require different humidity levels. ​Tropical species need higher humidity, while desert species thrive in ​drier conditions. Use hygrometers to monitor and maintain the ​appropriate humidity levels.


Substrates: Choose substrates that mimic your lizard's natural ​habitat. For example, sand for desert species and soil or moss for ​tropical species. Ensure the substrate is clean and free of harmful ​chemicals.



A pet lizard enjoying a meal of insects and leafy greens.
A veterinarian performing a health check on a pet lizard.

Providing proper nutrition


Lizards have diverse dietary needs that vary based on their ​species. Some are insectivores (eats insects), others are ​herbivores (eats plants.) and some have omnivorous (eats ​plants and animals) diets. Providing a balanced diet is ​essential for their health.


Insectivores: Feed a variety of live insects such as crickets, ​mealworms and roaches. Dust the insects with calcium and ​vitamin supplements to prevent nutritional deficiencies.


Herbivores: Offer a mix of leafy greens, vegetables and fruits. ​Ensure the diet is rich in calcium and other essential ​nutrients.


Omnivores: Combine both insects and plant matter in their ​diet. Variety is key to providing a balanced nutritional profile.


Maintaining health and wellness

Regular health checks and maintaining a clean ​environment are vital to prevent diseases and ​promote overall wellness. Look for signs of illness, ​such as changes in appetite, lethargy or unusual ​behavior.


Cleanliness: Regularly clean the enclosure to ​remove waste and uneaten food. This helps prevent ​bacterial growth and keeps your lizard healthy.


Health checks: Schedule regular veterinary visits for ​your lizard. Reptile vets can provide specialized care ​and advice tailored to your pet's needs.


Handling: Handle your lizard gently and ​infrequently. Overhandling can cause stress and ​health issues.


A pet lizard being gently held by its owner, showcasing their bond.
A pet lizard climbing on branches and rocks in its enclosure.

Enriching your lizard's life

Mental stimulation and physical exercise are ​important for your lizard's happiness. Provide ​enrichment through various activities and ​environmental modifications. Include ​branches, rocks and other structures for ​climbing.

This mimics their natural environment and ​encourages physical activity.

Offer hiding places within the enclosure to ​make your lizard feel secure and reduce stress.

Introduce safe toys and objects for your lizard ​to explore. Rotate these items regularly to ​keep the environment interesting.

Join us at Tails, Beaks and Feets in celebrating ​these amazing creatures and making pet ​ownership a joyful and fulfilling experience.


By understanding their needs and providing a suitable habitat, proper nutrition, ​regular health checks and enrichment activities, you can ensure your lizard leads a ​happy and healthy life.

Let's create a community of passionate lizard lovers dedicated to the ​well-being of our scaly friends.