RHODESIAN GIRDLED TAIL LIZARD

Cordylus cordylus

 

Rhodesian Girdled Tail Lizards are native to the dry, rocky regions and brushy steppes of Southern Africa and Southern Ethiopia.  They flee into cracks and crevices in the rocks when threatened and raise their spines so that they cannot be pulled loose by predators.  Adapting well to captivity, Girdled Tail Lizards are relatively peaceful and compatible

 

Maximum size: 8”

 

Lighting:  Full spectrum fluorescent UV bulbs and a basking light are required.

 

Temperature range: Day 86°F Night 64°-68°F

 

Food:  Crickets, mealworms, and pinkie mice coated in calcium and vitamin powder.

 

Water: Girdled Tail Lizards can take up water through their skin.  They should be misted occasionally and provided with a shallow dish of water.

 

Housing/Habitat: An aquarium equipped with an under tank heating pad at one end landscaped to simulate their natural habitat.  A thick sand layer with a large loosely stacked rock pile, a piece of wood placed flat on the sand, and a silk plant will work well.  It is important to provide these lizards with plenty of hiding places.