Feeding & Nutrition

In addition to creating a life-sustaining environment, food is most important to lizards’ health and survival. When lizards refuse to eat, it usually is due to inadequate temperature, improper diet or excessive handling.

Of all reptiles, lizards are the most varied in eating habits and adaptations. Some are carnivores and eat only meat; others are herbivores that eat only plant matter. Some lizard species eat both plants and meat and are called omnivores. Almost all lizards kept in captivity need a vitamin and calcium supplement, usually given two to three times a week for adults and almost daily for juveniles.

Suppliers and herpetological societies generally have care sheets available for individual species of lizards. Consult with as many sources as possible to diagnose any problems and confirm that information is accurate and up to date.

to view a series of pop-up windows information on the food, nutritional and water requirements of lizards.