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Squamata - Shield-tailed Agama
Topic Started: Nov 24 2014, 09:08 PM (1,305 Views)
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Shield-tailed Agama ~ Xenagama taylori

Posted Image

General Information

Class: Reptilia
Order: Squamata
Family: Agamidae
Genus: Xenagama
Species: taylori

Location and Habitat

This peculiar lizard lives in the arid lands of Somalia and Ethiopia.

Conservation Status
Posted Image

Sizes
Weight.7 lb
Length (average)3" to 3 1/2" in
Height (average)n/a


In Zoos

Type of Exhibit: Deep substrate is usually a must for this burrowing species. Untreated garden soil is the preferred substrate for digging, for it can maintain both humidity and shape easily. The habitat should be based a little more on height than length, depending on how deep the substrate is. Provide a water bowl. Logs, plants, rocks, caves, etc. can provide good basking or hiding spots. These lizards are diurnal: a UV light bulb is preferred. If kept behind-the-scenes (ex: as an education animal), you probably won't need as much aesthetic decor, but instead more on the animal's well-being. A humid hide is recommended, preferably in the cool side of the terrarium.

Temperament: Shield-tail agamas seem to be very tame.

Diet: Insects such as crickets, mealworms, superworms, waxworms, etc. are a necessity. Vegetation such as collared greens, dandelion, etc. are also important. Other veggies such as carrots and zucchini can be given as a treat. Be sure to supplement the food with multivitamin every so often.

Social Needs: These agamids are best kept with a single male and his small harem of 2-4 females, depending on size.

Reproduction: Keep males separated to minimize any risk of fighting. The females will mate with the male, then will burrow and lay 1-2 clutches of eggs. In the wild, they'll incubate, but in captivity, you'll have to incubate yourself with an incubator. BE SURE to keep the eggs moist, spraying with a mister here and there. Hatchlings should be kept and raises separately to prevent cannibalism.

Extra Information:
  • This agama has an oddly-shaped tail. They use this to close their burrow as if it were a barrier.
  • The male has a vibrant, blue beard he uses when excited. Females also have a blue beard, but it isn't as vibrant or even noticeable.
  • These lizards love to dig networks of underground passages.



Exhibit Examples


Extra Pictures
Edited by Furka, Nov 25 2014, 07:27 AM.
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