Lagarto de Colar

CARE GUIDE

Size: Adults can reach 20-38cm (including the tail)

Origin: South-central United States and northern Mexico

Lifespan: Up to 15 years

Natural Habitat: Arid and semi-arid plains, rocky outcrops and sparsely vegetated areas of the Great Plains and the American desert southwest

The Lagarto de Colar (Crotaphytus collaris), also known as the Eastern/Common Collared Lizard, is a robust, brightly coloured lizard recognisable by the two dark collar-shaped bands around its neck. Diurnal, extremely active and alert, it spends much of the day running and jumping between rocks in search of prey and basking spots. Its territorial temperament and energy make it a fascinating lizard to observe, although it is not typically suited to frequent handling.

Although this is a relatively easy species to keep, a few aspects require attention and certain conditions must be ensured, as described in the following paragraphs.

Terrarium

Size: A minimum terrarium of 120x45x45cm is recommended for 1 adult

Material: Glass or Wood, with good ventilation

- Heating and Lighting

A terrarium with a thermal gradient should be provided, with an ambient temperature between 27ºC and 32ºC and a basking spot reaching 40-46ºC at the basking surface (ideally measured with an infrared thermometer). At night the temperature can drop to 18-21ºC. To reach these temperatures, use a powerful heat lamp properly controlled by a thermostat to prevent overheating.

UVB radiation is essential for this species, which is exposed to high UV levels in the wild. A UVI of 3 to 4 (Ferguson Zone 3) is recommended, so use 10 to 12% UVB tubes (T5 HO), positioned near the basking area and replaced every 6-12 months.

- Humidity

Coming from arid, rocky areas, Lagarto de Colar are adapted to low relative humidity, between 30% and 40%. Avoid moisture build-up in the terrarium, as overly humid environments can cause respiratory problems in this species.

It is essential to always have a water bowl with clean water in the terrarium, even though these animals drink infrequently.

- Decor

As an extremely active, running species, horizontal space should be prioritised. Furnish the terrarium with a substrate made of a compactable sand and soil mix that allows some digging without raising too much dust. Decor should include flat rocks stacked safely and stably, creating raised platforms for basking and thermoregulation, as well as several hides and crevices where the animal can retreat. Some dry or drought-tolerant vegetation can be added for enrichment without compromising free space for movement.

Diet and Supplementation

Feeding habits: Insectivorous/Opportunistic carnivore

Diet: Juveniles should be fed every day. For adults, feeding frequency should be reduced to every other day. In the wild, Lagarto de Colar are opportunistic predators that, besides insects, occasionally prey on other small lizards, so they have a voracious appetite and a varied diet benefits their wellbeing.

- Foods

Insects: Crickets, Roaches, Locusts, Mealworms, Waxworms, Calcium Worms...

- Supplementation

For vitamin and mineral supplementation, follow a routine of 3 to 5 meals dusted with Calcium Powder for every one dusted with a good-quality Multivitamin Complex (with Vit. D3).

Under Portuguese Law No. 95/2017 of 23 August, the sale and/or advertising of wild/exotic animals through websites or online platforms is not permitted. To find out which animals we currently have available and their conditions of sale, please get in touch with us.