Top lizard pets

Walk into any pet store or do a quick internet search and you’ll be greeted with a host of different options for pet lizards, so how do you choose? A lot of it has to do with your skill set and what you want in a lizard. So here are the top five lizards choices to narrow it down.

1 – Leopard Gecko

Lifespan: 15-20 years

Adult size: 7-10 inches

These are probably the most popular pet reptile out there, and with good reason. They’ve got a host of different traits in their favor, including a manageable size and a docile, friendly personality. They’re commonly yellow and white with black spots, but can come in a variety of different colors.

A leopard gecko can live in a 20 gallon tank with a basic heating lamp to create a basking area, and they don’t need a UV light. They’re insectivores and are very hardy, which makes them good for beginners.

2 – Bearded Dragon

Lifespan: 8-10 years

Adult size: 14-24 inches

Bearded dragons were originally from Australia, and are made for bright sunlight. As a result, they do need UVB lighting and controlled heating. Once adults, they’re known for being especially hardy.

These lizards are great show pets. They’re active during the day, and have signature good looks even non-lizard lovers like. They have a docile, friendly demeanor and are omnivores, needing both insects and plants for good nutrition. Because of their relatively small size, they need a 40 gallon tank.

3 – Green Iguana

Adult size: 5-6 feet

Green iguana are beautiful lizards that can be very intelligent and sociable. That being said, these popular lizards are definitely not for beginners. At full size, they’re very big, with teeth, spikes, and talons. An owner who’s more experienced will be able to bring out the best in the lizard to make them a good companion.

Because of their size, a green iguana will need a large space, a minimum of 6 ft x 6 ft x 6 ft. However, many owners will have their iguanas spend a lot of time out of their cage. Iguanas are herbivores, existing entirely on plants.

4 – Blue Tongue Skink

Lifespan: 10-20 years

Adult size: 14-20 inches

Originally, these lizards were found in Australia, Tasmania, and New Guinea. The most recognizable trait in the skink is its signature blue tongue, which is always a good conversation starter. These lizards are generally docile and react well to being handled and around people.

Like the bearded dragon, these lizards need a fairly large tank of about 40-50 gallons, and they also need UVB lighting. They’re also omnivores, so they should get a mix of both insects and plants in their diet.

5 – Red Ackie or Spiny Tailed Monitor

Lifespan: 10+ years

Adult size: 16-26 inches

This lizard is most commonly known simply as the Ackie, but also as the spiny tailed lizard or ring tailed lizard. These lizards are beautifully colored and have a smooth style that look like little dragons.