MALI UROMASTYX (Uromastyx maliensis) Mali Uromastyx are ground dwelling lizards native to the deserts of Mali, Africa. They are very popular pets because of their attractive appearance and unique personalities. Uromastyx are hardy, outgoing and quickly become tame. While many desert animals seek shelter during the hottest part of the day, these lizards are most active in the heat of the day. They like to dig burrows that are used to for shelter, escape from predators, or a cooling down area. Males, with their yellow backs, black heads, legs, and tails can be distinguished from females, which are uniformly yellowish-brown. Mali Uromastyx are territorial but can be kept in groups with one male per group as long as enough space, basking, and hiding places are provided. Maximum size: 16” Lighting: Full spectrum fluorescent high UVB bulbs and a basking light are required. 12 to 14 hours of light, preferably on a timer, will provide optimal conditions. Temperature range: Day 90°-100°F Night 70°F Basking area 100° -120°F Food: Collard greens, kale, turnip greens, mustard greens, dandelion greens, thawed frozen mixed vegetables, rabbit pellets, wildflowers, soaked bird seeds, lentils, strawberries, and prepared bearded dragon or iguana food are for good choices and should be offered in a varied mixture. Crickets and mealworms coated with vitamin mineral powder should be offered twice a week. Water: There is much controversy over offering water to Uromastyx. While it seems cruel to withhold water from a pet, they are designed to obtain their minimal water needs from their food sources to ensure survival in a very dry habitat. If water is provided at all times, there is a danger that it could raise humidity to unacceptable levels. Spraying the fresh vegetable mixture daily will increase the water content obtained from them. A 5-10 minute soak in warm water every couple of weeks will help keep them well hydrated and aid in shedding. Housing/Habitat: An aquarium equipped with an under tank heating pad at one end, a sand substrate deep enough to facilitate burrowing and landscaped to simulate their natural habitat. A rock placed under the basking light will absorb heat and provide belly heat to aid digestion. The rock should be placed so that the top spot reaches the high end of the needed basking temperature. Hot rocks or heat caves can also be used. Although these lizards love heat, it is important to have a cooler area in their enclosure so they can regulate their body temperatures. Branches for climbing and hiding places in both the cool and the warm end of the enclosure are needed.