Reptile · Iguanid
Zebra-tailed lizard care guide
Callisaurus draconoides
The zebra-tailed lizard is a advanced-level iguanid from SW USA, NW Mexico. Adults reach 15–23 cm and live 4–8 years in captivity. Needs long running space and sand to bury in.
- Enclosure 120 × 45 × 45 cm
- Temp Basking 40–45°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity 10–25%
How much does a zebra-tailed lizard cost in Canada?
Zebra-tailed lizard quick facts
- Skill level
- Advanced
- Adult size
- 15–23 cm
- Lifespan
- 4–8 years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- SW USA, NW Mexico
- Minimum enclosure
- 120 × 45 × 45 cm (47 × 18 × 18 in, ≈ 64 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Basking 40–45°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity
- 10–25%
- UVB
- Required
- Diet
- Insectivore – small crickets, roaches
- Bioactive style
- Arid desert
Zebra-tailed lizard enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 120 × 45 × 45 cm (47 × 18 × 18 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: 10–25%. UVB: Required.
What does a zebra-tailed lizard eat?
Insectivore – small crickets, roaches. Adults daily or every other day.
Handling, temperament & health
Extremely fast; display only.
Health watch: Nose rub injuries and dehydration.
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 zebra-tailed lizard bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (120 × 45 × 45 cm).
Zebra-tailed lizard FAQ
Is the zebra-tailed lizard good for beginners?
The zebra-tailed lizard is an advanced species – best for experienced keepers. Extremely fast; display only.
What size enclosure does a zebra-tailed lizard need?
At least 120 × 45 × 45 cm (about 47 × 18 × 18 inches, roughly 64 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a zebra-tailed lizard cost in Canada?
Typically $60–150 CAD to buy, about $670–1180 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $250–350 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a zebra-tailed lizard need?
Temperature: Basking 40–45°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 10–25%.
What does a zebra-tailed 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.