Lizard Age Calculator

Understanding Lizard Ages

Lizards are diverse reptiles with lifespans varying dramatically by species, ranging from 4-8 years for small species like anoles to 20+ years for larger species like iguanas and monitors. Unlike mammals, many lizards continue growing throughout their lives, though growth slows significantly after maturity. Proper husbandry including appropriate temperature gradients, UV lighting, diet, and enclosure size is crucial for lizards to reach their maximum lifespan potential.

Lizard Life Stages

• Hatchling (0-6 months): Emerged from egg, rapid growth phase, vulnerable to environmental stress
• Juvenile (6 months-2 years): Fast growth continues, developing adult coloration and behaviors
• Sub-adult (2-3 years): Approaching sexual maturity, establishing territorial behaviors
• Adult (3-10 years): Sexual maturity reached, optimal health and breeding condition
• Senior (10+ years): Growth slowed or stopped, may show age-related health changes

Popular Pet Lizard Species Comparison

Lizard Health and Husbandry

Lizards are ectothermic (cold-blooded) reptiles that rely on external heat sources to regulate body temperature. As reptiles, they have unique care requirements compared to mammals, including specific temperature gradients, UV lighting for vitamin D3 synthesis, and species-appropriate diets. Proper environmental conditions are essential for digestion, immune function, and overall health.

Essential Lizard Care Requirements:

• Provide appropriate temperature gradient with basking spot (varies by species, typically 90-110°F)
• Install proper UVB lighting (10-12% UVB for most species) for calcium metabolism and vitamin D3
• Maintain correct humidity levels (species-dependent, ranging from 30-80%)
• Offer species-appropriate diet (herbivore, carnivore, or omnivore) with proper calcium/vitamin supplementation
• Provide adequate enclosure size (minimum 40 gallons for small species, larger for big lizards)
• Create environmental enrichment with hides, climbing branches, and substrate for natural behaviors
• Monitor for signs of metabolic bone disease, respiratory infections, and parasites

References

The lifespan and care data used in this calculator are based on scientific research and reputable herpetological sources:

• Reptiles Magazine - Comprehensive Reptile Care Guides
• Everything Reptiles - Lizard Lifespan Guide
• Texas A&M Veterinary Medicine - Reptile Care
• NCBI - Reptile Biology and Husbandry