Reeves's butterfly lizard

Leiolepis reevesii, also called Agame de Reeves or Leiolepis de Reeves, is a terrestrial lizard native to Southeast Asia. This species is particularly appreciated by terrariophiles for its active behavior, its generally calm temperament and its magnificent colors that can vary from brown to orange yellow with distinctive patterns.

In nature, these lizards live in open areas, sandy or grassy where they dig vast burrows that serve as refuge against predators and temperature variations.

Size and life expectancy

Adult size: 30 to 40 cm

Adult weight: 200 to 400 g

Life expectancy: 10 to 15 years, sometimes more with optimal care

Males are generally more colourful and slightly more robust than females.

Temperament and behavior

-The Agame de Reeves is a lizard:

-Diurnal (active during the day)

-Very active and curious

-Excellent digger

-Generally peaceful and manipulable.

Relatively tolerant of human presence

Once acclimated, he can become quite confident and come to observe his environment or his guardian.

Terrarium

This species spends a lot of time on the ground and needs a large area to run and dig.

Minimum Recommended Size

For an individual:

48 x 24 x 24 in (122 x 61 x 61 cm)

For a couple or a trio:

72 x 24 x 24 in (183 x 61 x 61 cm) or larger

A larger terrarium will always be beneficial.

Substrate

The substrate must allow the digging of stable burrows.

Recommended Options

-Compactable sandy soil

-Mixture of black earth without fertilizer and sand

-Specialized excavator for reptiles (Clay Excavator style)

Minimum depth: 6 in (15 cm)

Ideal: 8 to 12 in (20 to 30 cm)

Digging is a natural behavior essential to their well-being.

Temperatures

A good thermal gradient is essential.

Day

Hot Spot: 38–42°C (100–108°F)

Hot Zone: 30–35°C (86–95°F)

Cool Zone: 24–28°C (75–82°F)

Night: 20–24°C (68–75°F)

A nocturnal decline promotes a healthy natural cycle.

Lighting and UVB

Like most agams, Leiolepis reevesii relies heavily on UVB to metabolize calcium.

UVB T5 HO tube 10.0 or 12%

12 to 14 hours of daily lighting

UVB lamps must be replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, even if they continue to emit visible light.

Humidity

Unlike strict desert species, this species enjoys moderate humidity.

Recommended rate: 50 to 70%Tips

Light spraying as needed

Damp hiding place recommended.

Reeves' Agama is omnivorous with a strong herbivory trend in adulthood.

Recommended plants:

-Dandelion

-Endive

-Mustard leaves

-Trefoil

-Roquette

-Chicory

Insects:

-Crickets

-Cockroaches

-Silkworms

-Worms of flour

Supplements

Calcium without D3 at most meals

Multivitamin once a week

Calcium with D3 according to the UVB exposure

A bowl of clean water must be available at all times.

Even if some people drink infrequently, they should always have access to a fresh water source.

Cohabitation

This species can sometimes be maintained in groups when:

-The terrarium is sufficiently large

-Several hiding places are available

Individuals are monitored for any aggression

It is generally preferable to avoid the cohabitation of several adult males.

Reproduction

Females may lay several eggs after mating.

Terms and conditions:

Deep substrate for laying eggs

Good nutrition before and after reproduction

Incubation generally between 28 and 30 °C