Hello!
I've been doing research and gradually prepping for my first baby(lizard). I've looked at several different options, but I'm having trouble finding a species that fits me. I have a fifty/fifty-five gallon tank, more long/wide than tall. Since its not as tall, I'm leaving most abboreal(?) lizards out of my search. And because the enclosure will have to stay that fixed size, I've left out larger lizards.
So my list of "requirements" are that the adult size of the lizard fit comfortably in the enclosure (50/55 gallon, glass). One that can be handled or tamed easily and will just hang out with me every once and a while. Something hardy would be great. And this is a long shot- but something thats simple/easy to keep fed and happy. Won't say cheap because I don't think that "cheap" applies to any animal.
Running a search on google for "beginner" lizards generally pulls up beardies, leopard and/or crested geckos, blue tongued skinks, red ackies and occassionally iguanas. Beardies are out of the question due to size and that they demand a kind of mixed diet. I've also never felt really connected to them.
I'm leaving geckos out because I would like something that I can handle pretty regularly and hold while working at my desk or watching tv.
I'm still looking at the skinks, but I've been told by a friend with several years of personal experirence with different reptiles that skinks are brats.
I've looked briefly into the red ackies. Eventually I would like to look at them again but at the time I just don't have the space.
I know better than to pick up an baby iguana for thirty bucks at the pet store. I've met a handful of them, all different ages and sizes, and theres just...no way. No offense to anyone who cares for some, but they're just not for me.
I really had my heart set on a uromastyx until I realized that it wasn't healthy to take them out of their enclosures due to their need for high temps.
Another friend suggested a chuckwalla, but they also generally get too big and need a similar range of heat.
I was also referred to mountain horned lizards, the current option I'm researching. I like their size and chilled out demeanor, but I'm just not sure, and I've read that most are wild caught and may have trouble acclimating (my friend works at a petstore and they got some in that are battling worms). I've also noticed that theres just not a lot of information for them yet.
I'm looking for suggestions and opinions from folks that have already had lots of experience with these animals.
Thank you for your time!
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