Reptile · Iguanid
Long-nosed leopard lizard care guide
Gambelia wislizenii
The long-nosed leopard lizard is a advanced-level iguanid from SW USA, N Mexico. Adults reach 30–40 cm and live 8–12 years in captivity. Eats other lizards; never house with anything smaller.
- Enclosure 120 × 60 × 60 cm
- Temp Basking 40–45°C, cool 26°C
- Humidity 10–25%
How much does a long-nosed leopard lizard cost in Canada?
Long-nosed leopard lizard quick facts
- Skill level
- Advanced
- Adult size
- 30–40 cm
- Lifespan
- 8–12 years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- SW USA, N Mexico
- Minimum enclosure
- 120 × 60 × 60 cm (47 × 24 × 24 in, ≈ 114 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Basking 40–45°C, cool 26°C
- Humidity
- 10–25%
- UVB
- Required
- Diet
- Carnivore – crickets, roaches, occasional pinky
- Bioactive style
- Arid desert
Long-nosed leopard lizard enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 120 × 60 × 60 cm (47 × 24 × 24 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a arid desert bioactive build.
- Soil and sand mix15 cm
A deep, sandy mix packed firmly lets burrows hold their shape; keep only the deepest layer faintly moist.
Temperature: Basking 40–45°C, cool 26°C. Humidity: 10–25%. UVB: Required.
What does a long-nosed leopard lizard eat?
Carnivore – crickets, roaches, occasional pinky. Adults every 2 days, juveniles daily.
Handling, temperament & health
Aggressive feeder and may bite; display animal.
Health watch: Metabolic bone disease and nose rub injuries.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check basking temperatures; refresh water (or mist lightly for species that drink droplets).
Weekly
- Spot-clean waste.
Monthly
- Lightly moisten one deep corner so burrows hold and isopods survive.
- Check rock stacks are stable.
Yearly
- Refresh the top layer; replace UVB bulbs on schedule.
Recommended for a long-nosed leopard lizard bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (120 × 60 × 60 cm).
Long-nosed leopard lizard FAQ
Is the long-nosed leopard lizard good for beginners?
The long-nosed leopard lizard is an advanced species – best for experienced keepers. Aggressive feeder and may bite; display animal.
What size enclosure does a long-nosed leopard lizard need?
At least 120 × 60 × 60 cm (about 47 × 24 × 24 inches, roughly 114 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a long-nosed leopard lizard cost in Canada?
Typically $150–350 CAD to buy, about $910–1580 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $300–450 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a long-nosed leopard lizard need?
Temperature: Basking 40–45°C, cool 26°C. Humidity: 10–25%.
What does a long-nosed leopard lizard eat?
Carnivore – crickets, roaches, occasional pinky. Adults every 2 days, juveniles daily.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.