Ruqayyah Snyder
Keeping a lizard as a pet in Australia can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful consideration and preparation. Reptiles have very different requirements from traditional pets, and prospective owners should be aware of the specific needs and challenges associated with lizard care. With a variety of lizard species available as pets, it is important to research their unique husbandry, feeding, and housing requirements. The Central Bearded Dragon, Pogona vitticeps, is a charismatic and interactive lizard that is commonly kept by beginners, along with the placid and easy-to-handle Eastern Blue-tongue Lizard, Tiliqua scincoides. Other lizards, such as chameleons and geckos, may have different handling requirements but can also make good pets in the right household. Before acquiring a lizard, it is essential to understand the legal requirements, as all native reptiles in Australia are protected by law, and licences are typically required.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Popular pet lizards in Australia | Central Bearded Dragon, Pogona vitticeps |
| Eastern Blue-tongue Lizard, Tiliqua scincoides | |
| Antaresia Genus (includes the spotted python and children's python) | |
| Savannah monitor | |
| Blue-tongue skink | |
| Chameleon | |
| Crested Gecko | |
| General considerations | Feeding requirements (e.g. live crickets, frozen mice) |
| Veterinary care (not all clinics have reptile veterinarians) | |
| Health requirements (can be difficult to spot health problems) | |
| Age of the lizard (hatchlings can be delicate and fussy eaters) | |
| Husbandry requirements (long lifespans, specific needs) | |
| Licencing requirements (varies by state or territory) |
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What You'll Learn
Popular Australian pet lizards
Reptile-keeping is a growing hobby in Australia, with many fascinating native species to choose from. However, it's important to remember that keeping a lizard is a privilege, not a right, and it's a commitment that requires a lot of research and preparation. All native reptiles are protected by law in Australia, so you will need to obtain a licence from your state or territory's wildlife authority before acquiring one.
Central Bearded Dragon (Pogona vitticeps)
The Central Bearded Dragon is one of the most widely kept reptiles worldwide. They are charismatic, coming in a variety of colours, and highly interactive, making them perfect for children and adults alike. They are easy to care for and are commonly available as pets.
Eastern Blue-tongue Lizard (Tiliqua scincoides)
Also known as the Blue-tongue skink, this lizard is commonly found roaming the woodlands and fields of Australia, New Guinea, and Indonesia. They are placid, easy to handle, and will eat almost anything, making them a good choice for beginners. As juveniles, they may appear nervous and cautious around humans, but with gentle and consistent interaction, they will mature into docile adult pets.
Antaresia Genus
This genus includes some of the smallest pythons in the world, such as the spotted python (Antaresia maculosa) and the children's python (Antaresia childreni). These snakes are considered good options for new reptile keepers due to their small size.
Monitor Lizards
There are about 80 species of monitor lizards, and while they require an adult who can spend a lot of time with them and exhibit a lot of patience, they can make good pets. When handled gently as juveniles, they will generally be docile and calm as adults. Some species are carnivores, while others, like the Savannah monitor, do well on an insect diet.
Crested Gecko
The Crested Gecko, native to the island of New Caledonia, is considered a good family pet for households with older children. They enjoy some handling and are docile and easy to manage.
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Feeding and health requirements
When it comes to feeding and health requirements, there are several factors to consider before getting a lizard as a pet in Australia. Firstly, it is essential to understand that reptiles have specific dietary needs and require a heat source to digest their food. Most lizards are omnivores and need a diverse diet that includes meat, fruits, vegetables, and live insects. Popular food options include cat food, kangaroo mince, live crickets, and cockroaches. It is important to provide a balanced diet to ensure the proper growth and health of your lizard.
In addition to their dietary needs, lizards also have specific husbandry requirements. They need an enclosure that provides a thermo-gradient, allowing them to regulate their body temperature by moving between a warm and cool end. The warm end of the enclosure should be maintained at around 32°C, while the cool end should be kept at approximately 18°C. This temperature gradient ensures that the lizard can stay comfortable without being too cold or overheated.
When selecting a lizard as a pet, it is advisable to choose one that is at least six to eight weeks old. Younger hatchlings can be delicate and fussy eaters, so purchasing a lizard that is an established feeder is recommended. A quick physical assessment can also help determine the health of your potential pet lizard. It is important to note that not all veterinary clinics have reptile veterinarians, so finding one that treats lizards is crucial before bringing your pet home.
In Australia, all native reptiles are protected by law, and keeping exotic (non-Australian) reptiles is illegal. You will need to acquire a license from the state or territory wildlife authority to keep a lizard as a pet. Each state has its own licensing system and regulations, so it is essential to research the specific requirements for your location. Additionally, speaking to experienced reptile keepers and consulting reliable publications can provide valuable insights into the care and requirements of your chosen lizard species.
Overall, owning a lizard as a pet in Australia comes with specific responsibilities, including proper feeding habits, providing an appropriate environment, and adhering to legal requirements. By understanding and meeting these feeding and health requirements, you can ensure the well-being and longevity of your pet lizard.
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Legality and licensing
Keeping a lizard as a pet in Australia is regulated on a state-by-state basis, and the laws are subject to change. In most cases, you must apply for a licence before obtaining a reptile, and records must be kept with annual reporting. All reptiles must be acquired from a legitimate source, and there are constraints on which species can be kept and in what circumstances.
In the Northern Territory, as in most of Australia, the majority of reptiles require a permit to be kept as pets in captivity. However, some species are exempt.
In Tasmania, reptiles are protected under the Nature Conservation Act 2002 and the Threatened Species Act 1995. Frog eggs and tadpoles can be collected without a permit, but if a tadpole becomes a frog that is not a common froglet or brown tree frog, it must be returned to the body of water it came from.
In Victoria, there are four licence types for keeping wildlife, including reptiles, as pets. Some wildlife can be kept without a permit, such as the spotted grass frog or the Eastern blue-tongued lizard. For other reptiles, you must refer to the Wildlife Regulations of 2013 to determine which licence you need.
In South Australia, the Department for Environment and Water regulates the ownership of native animals, including reptiles. You will need a permit to keep any native animal in captivity. The permit system is in place to protect native animals from being illegally acquired and sold.
In New South Wales, native reptiles are protected by law. It is illegal to take a reptile from the wild or release an unwanted one back into the wild. Reptiles must be purchased from a licensed dealer or broker. There are different licences depending on the type of reptile and how many you want to keep.
In Queensland, a recreational wildlife licence is required, depending on the type of wildlife you want to keep.
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Reptile expos
Reptile Rampage
Reptile Rampage is one of the notable reptile expos in Australia. The event provides a fantastic opportunity to support the Western Australian reptile industry and gain knowledge about native wildlife and conservation efforts. The expo features talks from renowned herpetologists, providing attendees with valuable insights and expertise. Reptile Rampage also offers a range of experiences, including the VIP lounge, where attendees can interact with herpetology experts and enthusiasts.
Australian Reptile Park
The Australian Reptile Park, a long-standing attraction since 1958, offers visitors a hands-on experience with Australia's unique wildlife. The park was recognized as a Gold winner for 'Major Tourist Attraction' at the 2023 Australian Tourism Awards, showcasing its popularity and excellence in the industry.
Aussie Pythons and Snakes Forum
The Aussie Pythons and Snakes Forum is an online community that hosts discussions and shares information about reptile expos in Australia. They organize and participate in various expos, such as the 2022 Reptile Expo, where attendees can interact with breeders and enthusiasts, buy and sell reptiles, and gain knowledge about different species. The forum creates a platform for enthusiasts to connect and share their passion for reptiles.
VHS Reptile Expo
The VHS Reptile Expo is another notable event in Australia. While specific details about the expo are not readily available, they encourage sponsors, vendors, and private breeders to register their interest in participating. This expo aims to bring together a diverse range of exhibitors and create an engaging platform for reptile enthusiasts.
These expos provide a great opportunity to learn, connect with like-minded people, and appreciate the fascinating world of reptiles in Australia. They cater to a range of interests, from hobbyists to breeders, and offer valuable insights into the care, conservation, and appreciation of Australia's unique reptile wildlife.
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Habitat, handling, and feeding practices
Lizards can make excellent pets, providing a unique glimpse into the world of reptiles. If you are a first-time reptile keeper, it can be a daunting process to know where to start.
Habitat
Lizards are usually kept in an escape-proof vivarium made from wood, glass, or plastic. These enclosures usually open from the front for easy cleaning, and some come with lighting and heating already installed. It is important to recreate the natural environment for your lizard. Lizards enjoy climbing, basking, and hiding, so use branches, logs, bark, and rocks to encourage these activities. For example, lean a branch against the side wall for climbers, add a perch, or a larger rock for basking in the warmth. Hiding is an important natural behaviour for lizards, so try making a hiding place near the side of the enclosure. Hollow logs, large pieces of bark, cardboard boxes, or commercially made caves will hide your pet but still allow you to observe them. Cold-blooded lizards need a heat source to help regulate their body temperature, digest food, and stay active. Your vivarium should have a thermo-gradient, meaning it should be warmer at one end and cooler at the other to allow your lizard to self-regulate its temperature.
Handling
While lizards can be attentive to your activities, they do not crave human contact like other pets. Handling your lizard too much can cause them stress, especially for young lizards, which are particularly vulnerable to overhandling or changes to their environment. Always use hand sanitiser after handling your pet, as lizards can transfer bacteria such as salmonella to humans.
Feeding
It is important to consider whether you are comfortable with feeding your lizard and meeting its dietary requirements. Most lizards are omnivores, requiring a mixture of meat, fruit, and vegetables, as well as live prey such as crickets or mealworms. Pet shops offer a range of pelleted foods, along with calcium, vitamin, and mineral supplements. Food and water should be placed in shallow containers, and some lizards prefer a drip system for water. It is always advisable to purchase an animal that is an established feeder. When purchasing lizards, they should generally be between six and eight weeks of age as a minimum. This ensures that the lizard is eating well and is robust enough to cope with the stress of transport and relocation to a new enclosure.
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Frequently asked questions
The Central Bearded Dragon, Pogona vitticeps, is one of the most widely kept reptiles worldwide. They are highly interactive and come in a variety of colours, making them a perfect first reptile pet. The Eastern Blue-tongue Lizard, Tiliqua scincoides, is another common and readily available pet lizard that is perfect for beginners. They are placid, easy to handle, and will eat almost anything.
It is important to do your research and be aware of the specific husbandry requirements of lizards. Consider the lizard's feeding requirements and whether you are comfortable with their diet. For example, lizards like the Savannah monitor are carnivores and do well on a diet of insects. You should also consider the health requirements of your lizard and find a veterinarian that treats reptiles.
Many reptile societies hold annual 'Reptile Expos' where you can meet other reptile enthusiasts and see the different species available. It is also a good idea to speak to experienced reptile keepers and read reliable books and publications on the topic.
All native reptiles in Australia are protected by law, and it is illegal to keep exotic (non-Australian) reptiles in captivity. You will need to acquire a licence from the state or territory wildlife authority and ensure that you are keeping records and reporting annually as required. All reptiles must be obtained from legitimate sources, and there may be constraints on which species can be kept.
Before bringing your pet lizard home, ensure that you have a properly set-up reptile habitat ready, including food. Browse guides on Lizard & Gecko Facts to learn more about habitat needs, safe handling, and feeding practices.
