Description

Armadillo Girdled Lizard for Sale

The Armadillo Girdled Lizard for Sale is a fascinating South African lizard recognized for its heavily armored body, spiny scales, and unusual defensive behavior. Scientifically known as Ouroborus cataphractus, this terrestrial species has a distinctive appearance that makes it highly desirable among experienced reptile keepers. When properly housed and cared for, it can become a rewarding long-term addition to a specialized collection.

Key Features

• Scientific name: Ouroborus cataphractus
• Common name: Armadillo Girdled Lizard
• Strongly armored body
• Spiny scales and textured appearance
• Primarily terrestrial
• Diurnal and naturally active during daylight
• Insect-based omnivorous diet
• Requires warm basking conditions and UVB lighting

Appearance

The Armadillo Girdled Lizard for Sale has overlapping scales that create a rugged, armored appearance. Its body is generally brown, tan, or grayish, helping it blend into rocky surroundings. A particularly interesting feature is its ability to curl into a defensive ring and hold its tail in its mouth, exposing its protected scales.

Size

Adult Armadillo Girdled Lizards commonly reach approximately 7–9 inches in total length. Size can vary according to age, sex, genetics, nutrition, and overall husbandry.

Weight

Weight varies with age and body condition. Rather than focusing on one exact number, keepers should monitor steady growth, muscle tone, appetite, and overall body condition.

Lifespan

With excellent husbandry, a captive Armadillo Girdled Lizard may live for many years. Consistent nutrition, appropriate UVB, proper temperatures, and routine veterinary care can all contribute to longevity.

Natural Habitat

This species originates from rocky areas of South Africa, where it uses rock crevices and sheltered spaces for protection. Its natural environment explains why climbing surfaces, hiding areas, and a relatively dry enclosure are important in captivity.

Behavior & Temperament

The Armadillo Girdled Lizard for Sale is usually alert and interesting to observe during the day. It may retreat into a crevice when startled. Gentle, consistent interaction can help reduce stress, but frequent handling is unnecessary.

Diet & Feeding

Offer a varied diet centered around appropriately sized insects such as crickets, roaches, and other suitable feeders. Occasional plant matter can complement the diet. Feeder insects should be gut-loaded and dusted with appropriate calcium and vitamin supplements.

Feeding Schedule

Juveniles generally require more frequent meals than adults. Adults can usually be offered food several times per week, with portions adjusted according to appetite and body condition. Remove uneaten insects to maintain enclosure hygiene.

Housing & Enclosure

The Armadillo Girdled Lizard for Sale benefits from a dry, well-ventilated habitat with sturdy rocks, branches, hides, and elevated basking areas. A naturalistic setup can encourage exploration while giving the lizard secure places to retreat.

Enclosure Size

Provide as much floor space as practical. A minimum enclosure around 36 × 18 × 18 inches can work for an adult, while a larger enclosure offers better opportunities for movement, enrichment, and temperature gradients.

Substrate

Use a dry, well-draining substrate suitable for arid or rocky reptiles. A mixture designed for burrowing and naturalistic desert-style environments can work well when safely prepared. Avoid dusty substrates that may irritate the respiratory system.

Temperature

Create a clear thermal gradient. A basking area around 95–105°F can provide the warmth needed for digestion and activity, while the cooler side should remain significantly lower. Use digital thermometers to monitor both areas.

Humidity

The Armadillo Girdled Lizard for Sale generally does best with relatively low overall humidity and good ventilation. Avoid persistently damp conditions, but provide access to fresh water and an appropriately humid retreat when needed.

Lighting (UVB Requirements)

UVB lighting is strongly recommended. A quality UVB source positioned at the correct distance can support normal vitamin D3 production and calcium metabolism. Replace bulbs according to the manufacturer’s recommended schedule.

Water Requirements

Provide a shallow dish of fresh, clean water. Change it regularly and prevent the enclosure from becoming excessively damp. Always use appropriately treated water suitable for reptiles.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Remove feces, shed skin, and leftover food regularly. Clean the water dish frequently and perform deeper enclosure cleaning as needed. Good sanitation helps reduce bacterial buildup and supports a healthier habitat.

Health & Common Diseases

Potential problems include metabolic bone disease, parasites, dehydration, respiratory infections, injuries, and nutritional deficiencies. Poor temperatures or inadequate UVB can negatively affect digestion and calcium metabolism. An experienced exotic-animal veterinarian should evaluate concerning symptoms.

Signs of a Healthy Animal

A healthy Armadillo Girdled Lizard for Sale should have clear eyes, intact skin, strong movement, good muscle tone, normal alertness, and a healthy appetite. Persistent lethargy, discharge, swelling, weight loss, or breathing abnormalities should be addressed promptly.

Handling Tips

Support the entire body and avoid grabbing the tail. Allow the lizard time to settle into a new enclosure before introducing unnecessary handling. Calm, brief interactions are preferable to frequent disturbance. armadillo girdled lizard for sale

Breeding Information

Breeding is best attempted by experienced keepers. Establish healthy adult animals, appropriate seasonal conditions, proper nutrition, and suitable hiding areas before considering reproduction. Professional guidance can be valuable when planning a breeding project.

Beginner or Experienced Keeper?

The Armadillo Girdled Lizard for Sale is generally better suited to intermediate or experienced reptile keepers. Its specialized environmental needs make careful enclosure preparation important.

Legal Information (if applicable)

Ownership and transportation regulations can vary by location. Buyers should verify applicable federal, state, and local requirements before purchasing. Any required documentation or permits should be obtained before the animal is shipped.

Shipping Information

The Armadillo Girdled Lizard for Sale should be shipped using responsible live-animal procedures and weather-appropriate scheduling. Prepare the enclosure before delivery so the animal can be moved into its new habitat without unnecessary delay.

Live Arrival Guarantee

Amazing Reptiles Home provides a live arrival guarantee subject to the current terms and conditions. Follow all delivery and arrival instructions carefully to maintain eligibility.

Why Buy From Amazing Reptiles Home?

Amazing Reptiles Home focuses on responsible exotic-animal sales, customer communication, and practical care information. When choosing an Armadillo Girdled Lizard for Sale, proper preparation and dependable support can make the transition into a new home much easier.

Care Tips

• Provide strong UVB and appropriate basking heat.
• Maintain a dry, well-ventilated habitat.
• Offer varied, properly supplemented foods.
• Include multiple hides and sturdy climbing areas.
• Monitor temperatures with reliable digital equipment.
• Keep fresh water available.
• Watch appetite, activity, and body condition.

Related Products

Explore other lizards, geckos, tortoises, and reptile-care supplies from Amazing Reptiles Home to expand your collection or create a complete habitat setup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is this reptile captive bred?

Availability and breeding status can vary by individual animal. Review the specific product information or contact customer support for current details.

What does it eat?

The Armadillo Girdled Lizard for Sale can eat appropriately sized insects, supplemented with suitable plant material and properly balanced vitamins and minerals.

How often should it be fed?

Feeding frequency depends on age, size, activity, and body condition. Adults are commonly fed several times weekly, while younger animals generally need more frequent meals.

What enclosure size is recommended?

A minimum enclosure around 36 × 18 × 18 inches is a reasonable starting point for one adult, although additional space is preferable whenever possible.

What temperature and humidity are required?

Provide a basking zone around 95–105°F, a cooler retreat, and generally dry conditions with good airflow. Exact requirements should be adjusted according to the animal and enclosure.

Does it require UVB?

Yes. Proper UVB exposure is an important part of responsible care and supports normal calcium metabolism and overall health.

Is it beginner friendly?

The Armadillo Girdled Lizard for Sale is usually recommended for keepers with some reptile husbandry experience because temperature, UVB, diet, and enclosure conditions must be managed carefully.

How long does shipping take?

Shipping time depends on destination, weather, carrier schedules, and the shipping service selected for the order. Check current shipping details before purchase.

Do you offer a live arrival guarantee?

Yes. Amazing Reptiles Home offers a live arrival guarantee subject to applicable terms, conditions, and arrival requirements.

How can I contact customer support?

Contact Amazing Reptiles Home through the customer-support options available on the website for questions about availability, ordering, shipping, or care.

Ready to add an extraordinary armored reptile to your collection? Order your Armadillo Girdled Lizard for Sale from Amazing Reptiles Home today and give your new lizard the carefully prepared habitat it deserves.