mountian horn lizard care - Noah's Ark Pets
Common Name: Mountain Horn Lizard
Scientific Name: Acanthasaura armata
Adult Size: 14" to 16"
Mountain Horn lizards are indigenous to rocky scrubland areas. May become tame with regular handling, but will bite if threatened, so handle with care. You should separate males to avoid territorial disputes.
Housing:
An adult Mountain Horn lizard will require at least a 20-gallon aquarium. Suitable substrates for your lizard's home include shredded coconut husks, reptile bark or reptile carpet . Provide dark places for hiding, and rocky basking areas.
Temperature:
Provide a temperature range of 78-84°F during the day, with a basking area of 90"F and in the low to high 70's°F at night. This is necessary for the Mountain Horn lizard's metabolism and immune system to function properly. There are several methods for establishing the proper temperature range for your reptile. You can use an incandescent light bulb with reflectors to heat the aquarium during the day and an under tank heat mat to help regulate the temperature 24 hours a day. Never place lights inside the enclosure where your reptile could come in contact with them and get burned. When using spotlights for 24 hour heat use red, night bulbs or a ceramic heating element to maintain day / night light cycle. Always use a thermometer to ensure proper temperature range is maintained. This species requires low to moderate levels of humidity.
Lighting:
Full-Spectrum lighting that emits UVB is a must for captive reptiles. Reptiles depend on ultra-violet light to synthesize vitamin D3, which regulates calcium absorption in the intestine. The light should be positioned less than 18" from your pet for maximum effect. Glass blocks ultraviolet light, and air circulation, therefore it should never be used as a top for the enclosure. A 12- hour day/ night lighting cycle is a good start for your pet reptile. Using a timer is the best way to ensure that the proper amount of light is received.
Food:
Their primary diet consists of insects like crickets and mealworms, but once in a while it will eat flowers. DO NOT LEAVE THE CRICKETS IN THE CAGE FOR LONG PERIODS OF TIME. You should dust your lizard's food with a vitamin/mineral supplement.
NOTE: This care sheet is a general guide, to learn more about your pet consult a book about it.
