Reptile · Agamid
Shield-tailed agama care guide
Xenagama taylori
The shield-tailed agama is a intermediate-level agamid from Somalia, Ethiopia. Adults reach 10–12 cm and live 8–12 years in captivity. Uses its flat tail to plug its burrow; provide deep soil.
- Enclosure 60 × 45 × 30 cm
- Temp Basking 40–45°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity 20–30%
How much does a shield-tailed agama cost in Canada?
Shield-tailed agama quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- 10–12 cm
- Lifespan
- 8–12 years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- Somalia, Ethiopia
- Minimum enclosure
- 60 × 45 × 30 cm (24 × 18 × 12 in, ≈ 21 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Basking 40–45°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity
- 20–30%
- UVB
- Required
- Diet
- Insectivore – small crickets, small roaches
- Bioactive style
- Arid desert
Shield-tailed agama enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 60 × 45 × 30 cm (24 × 18 × 12 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 24°C. Humidity: 20–30%. UVB: Required.
What does a shield-tailed agama eat?
Insectivore – small crickets, small roaches. Adults every 2 days, juveniles daily.
Handling, temperament & health
Small and shy; minimal handling.
Health watch: Dehydration and impaction.
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 shield-tailed agama bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (60 × 45 × 30 cm).
Shield-tailed agama FAQ
Is the shield-tailed agama good for beginners?
The shield-tailed agama is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Small and shy; minimal handling.
What size enclosure does a shield-tailed agama need?
At least 60 × 45 × 30 cm (about 24 × 18 × 12 inches, roughly 21 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a shield-tailed agama cost in Canada?
Typically $300–700 CAD to buy, about $430–780 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $200–300 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a shield-tailed agama need?
Temperature: Basking 40–45°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 20–30%.
What does a shield-tailed agama eat?
Insectivore – small crickets, small roaches. 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.