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Mali
Uromastyx
Uromastyx
maliensis
Lucille |
Malokai |
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A
Cute Little Booger!
The
Mali Uromastyx, or Uromastyx maliensis, is a very interesting lizard
species. Uromastyx can be found in the Republic of Mali, an African
Country. It has the looks of something out of the Stone Age. With a
turtle-like face and a spiny tail it looks equipped for battle. But
in all actuality it is a very docile species. The Uromastyx commonly
ranges from 12"-14" in length, requiring a large enclosure
with basking spots of up to 120 degrees F.
Mali
Uromastyx-Uromastyx maliensis
Origin-Republic
of Mali (Africa)
Size-12"-14"
Temperment/Handling-Docile,
Easy to handle.
Hardiness-A
pretty hardy species. Often wild caught, care should be taken
to rid of parasites and other ailments. This species is long lived
and slow growing.
Housing-A
45gal aquarium or larger is adequate for a single Mali. A
4'X2'X2' enclosure would be large enough for two occupants. A lid is
not necessary but recommended to keep other things from getting to
the Malis. Newspaper, sand, or a sand/soil mix can be used as
substrate. Baby Mali's should always be kept on newspaper to avoid
sand impaction. Sand impaction is when the Mali eats the substrate
causing it to get lodged inside the animals body. This can cause
serious health problems. A good hide box or cave of some sort should
always be added. Mali's love bright light and will bask much of
the day. Finally add a few pieces of cork bark, chollawood, or well
secured rocks to help keep the Mali's occupied. The larger the
enclosure, the more entertaining your new pet will be. I prefer to
house my Mali's seperately.
Enclosure
Maintenance-Mali's
can be messy choosing to throw veggies everywhere. Papers
should be changed as often as possible, removing fecal matter
daily. Sand substrates can be changed every month or so, making
sure to remove fecal (poop) matter daily. Water should always
be fresh. All cage items should be cleaned with a dilution of
1part bleach to 30parts water every few months making sure to
thoroughly rinse. Check all electrical devices as often as
possible to help prevent fire hazards.
Lighting-Mali's
are diurnal, day lovers, which enjoy basking much of the day. Lights
should be left on 14hrs a day in the summer months and 10hrs a day in
the winter. A good basking light is essential to the health and well
being of this species. Keep in mind the lizard should never be
allowed to touch the bulb. This may cause severe burns and possibly
death. Many brands are available, research for yourself to find out
which one is best for you. Natural sunlight is best for Mali's, but
outdoor enclosures are not practical in most parts of the U.S.
So Mali's kept indoors should have full spectrum lighting such as the
ReptiSun5.0 or ESU7%. Both put off the best levels of UVA and
UVB trying to mimic natural sunlight. UVB produces vitiman/D3
which is important in the metabolizing of calcium and phosporous. It
is also believed to help reverse the effects of Metabolic Bone
Disease, a condition in which bones become weak and brittle making it
difficult for the animal to eat and perform normal functions.
UVA helps Beardeds to act natural as in eating habits and mating. The
bulb should be within 12" of the basking spot for the lizard to
get the full effect. Remember glass filters out the beneficial
beams of the bulb. These bulbs loose effectiveness after about 6
months and should be replaced. Light is still produced, but the
beneficial rays are reduced if not non-existant. All lights
should be on a timer so the Mali's get the same day/night cycle every day.
Heat/Temp-The
basking temp should be 115-125F with the opposite end of the
enclosure around 82-85F. Nighttime temps should be about 70F.
Temps should be slightly cooler in the wintertime. Mali's can
withstand an occasional drop to about 60F. The overhead lighting
provides sufficent heat with the proper wattage bulb.
Humidity/Water-Mali
Uromastyx are a species that prefer a dry environment. Misting about
once or twice a week to help facilitate with shedding. You may choose
to offer a water dish at times. Mali's get most of there liquids from
the veggies they eat.
Diet/Food-Mali's
are almost totally vegetarian. Many veggies are suitable
for Mali's. Some of the best include dandelions (probably the best),
collard, mustard, and turnip greens, kale, and other dark
greens. Many different types of veggies should be offered to
help maintain a balanced diet. It is recommended to occasionally
dust the veggies with vitamins and minerals. The proper use of
supplements can reduce the risk of metabolic bone disease. I use
Rep-cal Calcium/vitD3, Herptivite, and Miner-All. All can
be found at any pet store. Vegetables should be available at
all times. An occasional insect such as a cricket or two shows just
how fast these lizards can run if given a good reason. Mali's
will also enioy some bird seed.
Sexing-
Other-Kind
of an ugly lizard, but very interesting.
Disclaimer-Everything
on this page is a matter of my personal opinion. This care
sheet is merely meant to help get you started. Always do lots
of other research and do what is in the best interest of you and your pet.
Last
Updated-03/13/03
Aaron
Downing
ReptileAaron@aol.com
https://www.angelfire.com/me4/pets
Suggested
Reading
*Agamid
Lizards
Manthey
& Schuster
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