Reptile · Lacertid
Spiny-footed lizard care guide
Acanthodactylus erythrurus
The spiny-footed lizard is a intermediate-level lacertid from Iberia, NW Africa. Adults reach 18–23 cm and live 5–8 years in captivity. Juveniles have bright red tails. Deep sandy substrate.
- Enclosure 90 × 45 × 45 cm
- Temp Basking 40–45°C, cool 22°C
- Humidity 20–30%
How much does a spiny-footed lizard cost in Canada?
Spiny-footed lizard quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- 18–23 cm
- Lifespan
- 5–8 years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- Iberia, NW Africa
- Minimum enclosure
- 90 × 45 × 45 cm (35 × 18 × 18 in, ≈ 48 US gal)
- Housing
- Up to 2 can share; add about 50% more floor space for each extra animal.
- Temperature
- Basking 40–45°C, cool 22°C
- Humidity
- 20–30%
- UVB
- Required
- Diet
- Insectivore – small crickets, roaches
- Bioactive style
- Arid desert
Spiny-footed lizard enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 90 × 45 × 45 cm (35 × 18 × 18 inches). Up to 2 can share; add about 50% more floor space for each extra animal. 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 22°C. Humidity: 20–30%. UVB: Required.
What does a spiny-footed lizard eat?
Insectivore – small crickets, roaches. Adults daily or every other day.
Handling, temperament & health
Very fast; display only.
Health watch: Dehydration and metabolic bone disease.
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 spiny-footed lizard bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (90 × 45 × 45 cm).
Spiny-footed lizard FAQ
Is the spiny-footed lizard good for beginners?
The spiny-footed lizard is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Very fast; display only.
What size enclosure does a spiny-footed lizard need?
At least 90 × 45 × 45 cm (about 35 × 18 × 18 inches, roughly 48 US gallons) for one adult. Up to 2 can share; add about 50% more floor space for each extra animal.
How much does a spiny-footed lizard cost in Canada?
Typically $60–150 CAD to buy, about $570–1010 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $200–300 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a spiny-footed lizard need?
Temperature: Basking 40–45°C, cool 22°C. Humidity: 20–30%.
What does a spiny-footed lizard eat?
Insectivore – small crickets, roaches. Adults daily or every other day.
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.