Care Sheet - Great Anglehead Lizard

Scientific nameGonocephalus grandisCommon namesCrested River Dragon, Great Anglehead LizardHabitatThailand, Malaysia, Borneo, Sumatra, rain forests, diurnalSizeUp to 60 cmLife ExpectancyOver 10 years??ReproductionSeveral clutches with 6 eggs per year. Incubation period at 22°C about 70-90 days.TemperatureTemperature between 26-28°C, basking spot up to 30°C. Night turn down to 20-22°C. Humidity80-95%Lighting

UV Lamps or the Arcadia D3 Compact Exo Terra Repti Glo 5 or similar. Incandescent Lighting spot bulbs for the creation of basking spots.SubstrateLoose, absorptive substrate forest bark Coconut chips or similar.DécorStrong branches well anchored as climbing facilities, planting is feasible (Ficus benjamina, F. pumila, Scindapsus etc.).Various hiding places and a large water bowl with a waterfall or similar. These like to bathe and swim so an aquatic section would be preferred as it will also keep the humidity up.FoodInsects (e.g. crickets, crickets, Locusts, cockroaches, super mealworms, wax worms, moths, etc.), pinkie mice can be fed to adults as a treat but not too often. Regular additions of Calcium and vitamins are necessary.CommentsNot a lizard for the beginners they tend to be Very aggressive. They require a large roomy vivarium/Terrarium. Do not keep males together as they will fight constantly. One male and up to 3-4 females is good.

John Gamesby