The growing popularity of reptiles has caused a boom in pet owners seeking the most popular lizards around. These lizards are so in-style for a lot of reasons. Reading up on lizards is a great method for learning what to expect from them, so plan on getting a good lizard reference book before getting a good lizard. In the lizard world, numbers 1, 2 and 3 in popularity are Iguanas, Bearded Dragons and Anoles.
The one lizard almost anyone can identify is the Iguana. Their growing popularity stems from their high intelligence, their ability to bond with their keepers, their ease in feeding and their life spans. Iguanas can be somewhat aggressive, especially males who have reached sexual maturity, but if kept in a safe and roomy environment, they easily learn to adore their keepers and show them lots of lizard love. Iguanas are herbivores. They are not able to digest meat and therefore never take an interest in any meat form, which is great for the squeamish. They are happiest when provided a good variety of fruits and vegetables and fresh water. Meeting their dietary needs will keep them healthy, happy and more social.
For families seeking a lizard that will not mind being held and socialized with humans large and small, Bearded Dragons fit the bill. They are very docile and aren’t bothered by human hands, if they are used to them. Kids love these lizards, which grow up to a foot in length but almost never longer. Their size makes them attractive for those who are unwilling or unable to keep a large enclosure. They are also incredibly easy to feed. Their diet consists primarily of insects which are readily available at most pet stores. A few crickets every couple of days will fill their tummy and when dusted with specialty supplement powders for lizards, healthy. They have a life expectancy of four to eight years.
An extremely popular lizard for those beginners who are not interested in having a lizard that wants to be held is the Anole. Anoles are great jumpers and are extremely fast, so if one escapes, their capture is incredibly difficult. Anoles come in green and brown varieties and may change color, although this is usually a symptom that the pet is stressed. They grow in size to about six inches, but may grow a bit larger and like to be housed in groups of four to six. They are also easy to feed. They love crickets and should be fed insects which are smaller than the lizard’s head and have been fortified with a supplement powder. Anoles are often confused with Chameleons because of their ability to change color.
Ease of care, size, temperament and dietary needs are key factors in the most popular lizard species.
