COLLARD LIZARD

Characteristics:
Adult Collared lizards typically range from 10 to 13 inches [25-33 cm] long. However, some individuals can reach 15 inches [38 cm]. Males are larger than females, are more robust, and more colorful. They can be green, blue, yellow, or brown, backed with a sprinkling of white dots. Females are usually gray or tan, and when gravid will have orange spots or bars from the neck to the hind limbs. Except for a couple of species, males and females both have two black stripes around the neck; thus the name "collared" lizards. There are around 4 to 8 species, depending on who is counting. The Eastern Collared lizard (C. collaris) is the one most common in captivity.

Range:
Collared lizards are found in rocky arid to semi-arid terrains, and are usually seen perched on a boulder, sunning themselves. They range from the deserts of Southern California north through Nevada and Utah and into Idaho, east through Kansas and southern Missouri and into Arkansas, and south well into Mexico.

Captive Care:
Collared lizards should have a large cage, at least 2 feet [~60 cm] by 1 foot [30 cm] -- the size of a 20 gallon aquarium -- for an adult pair. Substrate can be sand or a sand/gravel mix. A spotlight or incandescent basking light should be aimed at one end of the cage to provide a basking temperature of 95 to 100°F [35-38°C]. A large rock or pile of rocks in the basking area will be appreciated; Collareds are fond of climbing rocks. A hide box at the cool end, which should remain at room temperature (70-75°F, or 21-24°C), should also be provided.

A full spectrum (UVB) light is also essential. Basking lizards require UVB to properly metabolize calcium. This is particularly important for juvenile lizards. Whenever possible, Collared lizards should be afforded an opportunity to bask in direct sunlight, unfiltered by glass or plastic. No artificial light comes even close to sunlight in UVB emissions. Care must be taken, however, that the lizard not overheat. A cool, shady retreat should be available, so the animal can regulate its own body temperature.

Do not put two males in the same enclosure, as fighting may occur. Also, do not put hatchlings or other smaller lizards in with larger Collared lizards; Collareds are known to eat smaller lizards, and are not sufficiently skilled at taxonomy to distinguish their own kind.

In captivity, Collareds enjoy a varied diet; they are known to eat grasshoppers, crickets, Jumbo mealworms (Zoophoba), and moths. Adults will appreciate an occasional pinky mouse. Vitamins and calcium supplement should be added to food items on a regular basis. Water should be offered at least twice a week. Collared lizards usually won't recognized water offered in a dish, but will lap water from a syringe or eye-dropper.

Eggs hatch between 45 and 60 days at a temperature of 82°F [28°C]. Hatchlings are around 3 to 4 inches [7-10 cm] long.