Nigerian Red Uromastyx - Uromastyx geyri

The Nigerian Red Uromastyx (Uromastyx geyri) is a desert-dwelling lizard, known for its vibrant red and orange coloration in males, which becomes more intense with sunlight. They are herbivorous, feeding on greens, seeds, and beans, and require a very warm, dry enclosure with a basking spot between \(120\)-\(130\)°F, with the ambient temperature around \(80\)-\(85\)°F. Males grow to about \(11\)-\(14\) inches, while females are less vibrant and more pale. Physical characteristics Size: Typically grow to about \(11\)-\(14\) inches in total length, though some sources note lengths up to \(17\) inches.Coloration: Males are brightly colored in reds and oranges, becoming more vibrant with heat and sun exposure. Females are more pale and duller, often with a "freckling" pattern.Unique features: They have a spiky tail that they use as a defense mechanism and a beak-like mouth for chopping food. Diet Herbivorous: They primarily eat leafy greens, flowers, and seeds.Examples: Romaine lettuce, escarole, kale, squash, carrots, and a variety of seeds and beans.Moisture: They get most of their water from their food and do not need a water bowl. Habitat and care Enclosure: A large enclosure is needed with a temperature gradient, including a hot basking spot and a cooler end.Temperatures:Basking spot: \(120\)-\(130\)°FAmbient: \(80\)-\(85\)°FNight: Temperatures can drop to \(68\)-\(75\)°F in the cooler end; a nighttime heat source may be needed if room temperature drops too low.Substrate: The substrate should be kept dry.Light: Adequate sunlight is crucial for their health.Supplements: A sprinkle of a \(1/3\) calcium and \(2/3\) high-quality reptile vitamin mixture on their food every few meals is recommended. Behavior Social: They are generally passive and active in their desert environment.Defense: Their primary defense is to run and hide, but they can whip their spiky tail.