If you’re looking for a low-maintenance pet that’s also interesting to watch, a lizard might be a great choice. Some of the best pet lizards for beginners include leopard geckos, bearded dragons, green iguanas, and crested geckos.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the unique characteristics of 22 diverse lizards that are perfect for novice reptile owners. Read on to learn more about the best pet lizards for beginners!
1. Bearded Dragon (Pogona Vitticeps)
If you’re a beginner looking for a reptile to keep as a pet, the Bearded Dragon is a fantastic option. These lizards are native to Australia and are known for their docile nature, making them ideal for novice reptile owners. They are also easy to care for and have a relatively long lifespan.
One of the most charming traits of Bearded Dragons is their ability to recognize their owners and show affection. That, combined with their unique appearance and engaging personalities, make them a delightful addition to any household. Another benefit is their diet.
Bearded Dragons are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including insects, vegetables, and fruits. Overall, if you’re searching for a perfect companion, the Bearded Dragon is an excellent choice for first-time lizard owners.
2. Leopard Gecko (Eublepharis Macularius)
If you’re looking to venture into the world of reptile ownership, the Leopard Gecko is an excellent choice for beginners. With their docile demeanor and ease of care, these lizards make for wonderful pets.
They don’t grow very large, so they won’t require a lot of space, and their diet consists mainly of insects, making feeding time a breeze.
Leopard Geckos are also relatively low maintenance, as they don’t require daily handling like other pets might. Their unique patterns and colors make them visually striking creatures, and they can be quite entertaining to watch as they scuttle around their enclosure.
3. Uromastyx (Uromastyx Species)
Looking for a pet lizard that is easy to care for and great for beginners? Look no further than the Uromastyx! These desert-dwelling lizards are a popular choice among new lizard owners due to their low maintenance requirements.
Unlike other pet lizards, Uromastyx does not require insects as part of their diet and can thrive on a diet of greens and vegetables alone. They are also relatively docile in nature, which makes them a great option for families with children.
Uromastyx comes in a variety of vibrant colors and patterns, which makes them a visually stunning addition to any home. As with any pet, it is important to research their care requirements thoroughly, but with the right knowledge and care, Uromastyx can make an excellent companion for any first-time lizard owner.
4. Blue-Tongued Skink (Tiliqua Scincoides Intermedia)
The Blue-Tongued Skink is an excellent choice for those seeking a pet lizard that is relatively easy to care for and handle. This species is particularly suitable for beginners thanks to its docile temperament, adaptability to various environments, and low-maintenance requirements.
The Blue-Tongued Skink is a great option for families, as it’s a hardy species that can live up to twenty years. In addition, it’s a naturally curious animal that enjoys interaction with its owner, making it the ideal pet for those seeking a more interactive experience with their reptile.
5. Chinese Water Dragon (Physignathus Cocincinus)
If you’re on the hunt for a pet lizard that is easy to care for and ideal for beginners, the Chinese Water Dragon may be the perfect choice for you. Known for their docile nature and attractive appearance, these reptiles are a favorite among lizard enthusiasts, new and experienced alike.
Chinese Water Dragons thrive in an environment that is both moist and humid, and they require a diet that consists primarily of insects and vegetables. They are also relatively low-maintenance when compared to other lizard species, making them an ideal choice for those who are new to reptile ownership.
6. Green Iguana (Iguana)
Green Iguanas are an excellent choice for beginners who are interested in owning a pet lizard. They are easy to find and relatively inexpensive, making them very accessible for first-time reptile owners.
Additionally, Green Iguanas are docile and typically have a calm demeanor, which makes them great pets for families with children. They are also active during the day and enjoy basking in the sun, making them visually engaging pets to observe.
With proper care, Green Iguanas can grow to be quite large and will require a spacious enclosure, which provides an opportunity for owners to create a fun and unique habitat for their pets. Overall, Green Iguanas’ combination of affordability, temperament, and fascinating behavioral intricacies make them an ideal option for those new to the world of pet lizards.
7. Red Ackie Monitor (Varanus Acanthuras )
The Red Ackie Monitor is a popular choice among reptile enthusiasts, and for good reason. This lizard is known for its docile nature, making it the perfect pet for beginners. It also has a manageable size, reaching an average of two feet in length, making it easy to care for in terms of housing and feeding.
The Red Ackie Monitor is also an active and fascinating species to observe. With a lifespan of up to 20 years, this pet lizard is sure to become a treasured member of any household. Additionally, they have an impressive range of colors, from bright fiery red to subtle shades of orange and brown.
8. Veiled Chameleon (Chamaeleo Calyptratus)
The Veiled Chameleon is a popular and versatile pet lizard for beginners for several reasons. Firstly, they are low maintenance and easy to care for, making them ideal for first-time reptile owners. Their diet primarily consists of crickets and other insects, making it easy and affordable to provide them with a balanced diet.
They are also hardy and resilient, meaning they can withstand different temperatures and humidity levels, making them adaptable to a range of habitats. Additionally, Veiled Chameleons are relatively docile and can be socialized over time, providing the opportunity for interaction and bonding with their owners.
9. Crested Gecko (Rhacodactylus Ciliatus)
The Crested Gecko, also known as the eyelash gecko, has become an increasingly popular choice for first-time lizard owners. Not only are they easy to care for, but they are also docile, making them suitable pets for those who are new to the reptile world.
Unlike other lizards that require special lighting and heating, Crested Geckos do well in standard room temperatures. They also have a mild temperament, making them less likely to bite or scratch owners.
In addition, Crested Geckos are nocturnal, making them a great choice for those who prefer to interact with their pet in the evenings. Overall, the Crested Gecko’s low-maintenance care and gentle nature make it a top choice for beginners looking to add a lizard to their household.
10. Savannah Monitor (Varanus Exanthematicus)
If you’re thinking about getting a pet lizard but you’re new to reptile care, a great option to consider is the Savannah Monitor. Native to Africa, the Savannah Monitor is one of the most popular lizards kept as pets due to its docile nature and relatively low maintenance requirements.
Despite their intimidating size, they’re easy to handle and don’t require a large enclosure like some other reptiles. Savannah Monitors are also highly adaptable creatures, making them a great choice for beginners who are still fine-tuning their care routine.
With a little bit of research and dedication, the Savannah Monitor can make a wonderful and rewarding companion for anyone who is new to the world of reptile keeping.
11. Colombian Gold Tegu (Tupinambis Teguixin)
The Colombian Gold Tegu is a great choice for those who are new to the world of pet lizards. Known for its docile demeanor, this type of Tegu is easy to handle and interacts well with humans. They are also relatively simple to care for, requiring basic supplies such as heat lamps and a source of humidity.
In addition, Colombian Gold Tegus are a hardy species that can adapt to various environments, making them an ideal choice for beginner pet owners. Overall, the Colombian Gold Tegu is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a reptilian companion that is easy to care for and fun to be around.
12. New Caledonian Giant Gecko (Rhacodactylus Leachianus)
The Caledonian Giant Gecko is a popular choice for first-time lizard owners due to its docile demeanor and gorgeous coloration. These lizards may grow up to fifteen inches in length and can live for over 10 years with proper care, making them an ideal pet for those seeking a long-term companion.
This species is also relatively low-maintenance, as they do not require any special lighting or heating. Additionally, the New Caledonian Giant Gecko is a nocturnal creature and does well in tanks that are kept at room temperature.
If you’re looking for an easy-to-care-for pet with a captivating appearance, then the New Caledonian Giant Gecko may be the perfect companion for you.
13. Frilled Dragon (Chlamydosaurus Kingii)
The Frilled Dragon is an impressive species of lizard that is native to Australia and New Guinea. An interesting fact about these lizards is that they can reach up to three feet in length, making them a great option for those who are interested in a larger reptilian pet.
Despite their size, the Frilled Dragon has a relatively low-maintenance care routine, making them a great option for novice reptile owners. Additionally, they are surprisingly docile and can be trained to take food from their owners’ hands.
The Frilled Dragon is also an impressive-looking lizard due to its bright coloring and the frill of skin around its neck that gives it its namesake. If you’re looking for a larger, more interactive pet lizard that is easy to care for, the Frilled Dragon may be the perfect choice for you.
14. Tokay Gecko (Gekko)
If you’re new to the world of reptile keeping, you might be wondering which species will make the best pet. Look no further than the Tokay Gecko. These colorful, charismatic lizards are the perfect choice for beginners, thanks to their hardy nature and easy-to-meet care requirements.
Unlike some other species, they thrive in most climates, making them adaptable to a wide range of habitats. Plus, they’re highly active and social, so you’ll enjoy watching them scamper around their enclosure and interact with you and other members of your household.
15. Flying Gecko (Ptychozoon Kuhli)
The Flying Gecko, also known as the Ptychozoon Kuhli, is an ideal pet lizard for beginners due to its easy care, docile temperament, and unique flying ability. These small lizards are native to Asia and can glide through the air using their flaps of skin between the legs.
Despite their ability to fly short distances, they are low-maintenance pet that requires minimal attention and can thrive in a small habitat. Additionally, Flying Geckos have a relaxed character, making them great for inexperienced owners who are unfamiliar with handling reptiles.
These geckos are an excellent choice for anyone looking to start keeping lizards as pets, as they offer a unique and exciting addition to any household.
16. Argentine Black and White Tegu (Salvator Merianae)
The Argentine Black and White Tegu is a great choice for first-time reptile owners due to its docile attitude and ease of care. This species of lizard can reach up to four feet in length, making it one of the largest lizards available as a pet.
Despite their size, Argentine Black and White Tegus are very easy to care for and make great pets. They require a large enclosure with plenty of hiding spots, branches, and other items to climb on.
In addition, they need warm basking areas as well as cooler retreats in order to stay healthy. These lizards also require a diet of insects, fruits, and vegetables to stay healthy.
17. Desert Horned Lizard (Phrynosoma Platyrhinos)
If you’re a beginner in the world of reptile pets, the Desert Horned Lizard is a great option to consider. This lizard is known for its hardy nature and low maintenance needs, making it an ideal pet for those who are just starting out.
With its unique appearance, complete with horns and spikes on its head and body, the Desert Horned Lizard makes for an interesting and intriguing pet. Additionally, these lizards are primarily insect eaters, which means that their diet is easy to maintain.
When it comes to caring for a Desert Horned Lizard, you’ll find that they require relatively little attention beyond the basics of feeding and providing a clean enclosure. Overall, the Desert Horned Lizard is a fantastic option for pet owners looking for a low-maintenance, visually captivating reptile companion.
18. Knight Anole (Anolis Knightii)
The Knight Anole is a great choice for first-time reptile owners due to its low-maintenance care requirements and gentle disposition. This species of lizard is native to the Caribbean and Central America, and it grows up to around three feet in length.
When it comes to their care routine, Knight Anoles require a large enclosure with plenty of branches for climbing as well as warm basking spots and cool retreats. They also need a diet that consists mainly of insects, such as crickets and mealworms.
These lizards are also relatively easy to handle, so those who are new to reptile keeping can feel comfortable when interacting with them. Overall, the Knight Anole is an excellent pet for beginners looking for a gentle and low-maintenance companion.
19. Argentine Tegu (Tupinambis Teguixin Nigropunctatus)
The Argentine Tegu is a wonderful choice for beginning lizard owners due to its calm demeanor and manageable size. Unlike some other breeds, the Argentine Tegu is known to be docile and friendly, making it a great companion for those new to reptile care.
Additionally, their 3-4 foot length is relatively modest compared to some of the larger lizards out there. They are also relatively easy to care for, with a diet that often includes fruits and vegetables along with insects and other small animals.
Overall, the Argentine Tegu is an excellent choice for a first-time lizard owner who wants a manageable pet that is both friendly and fascinating to watch.
20. Chuckwalla (Sauromalus Ater)
The Chuckwalla is a great option for beginners looking to add a lizard to their household. This species is known for its docile demeanor and relatively low maintenance needs, making it an ideal pet for those who are new to reptile keeping.
Despite their rather large size — they can grow up to two feet in length — these lizards have a relatively simple care routine. They require a large enclosure with plenty of branches for climbing, as well as warm spots and cool retreats.
Their diet mainly consists of fruits and vegetables, although they will also eat insects. Overall, the Chuckwalla is an ideal pet lizard for those who are looking for an easy-to-care-for companion that won’t require too much attention.
21. Gold Dust Day Gecko (Phelsuma Laticauda)
If you’re interested in keeping a pet lizard but have little to no experience with reptiles, the Gold Dust Day Gecko may be the perfect choice. These tiny lizards are known for their vibrant colors, active personalities, and relatively low-maintenance care requirements.
With proper diet and housing, they can thrive in captivity and live up to 8 years. Gold Dust Day Geckos are also known for being relatively easy to handle, although they may be quick and skittish at first. Their small size makes them perfect for those with limited space.
Unlike many other species of lizards, they don’t require complicated lighting setups or outdoor enclosures, making them a great choice for beginners who are just starting to learn about reptile care. Consider adding a Gold Dust Day Gecko to your family of pets and enjoy the beauty and unique characteristics this species has to offer.
22. Common Basilisk (Basiliscus)
The Common Basilisk is a great option for those looking to add a pet lizard to their family. This species is known for its relatively low-maintenance requirements and general hardiness, making it an ideal choice for first-time reptile owners.
Unlike some other lizard species, the Common Basilisk does not require special lighting or heating and can thrive in most climates. They also have a diet that mainly consists of insects, making it easy to provide them with the nutrition they need.
In addition, Common Basilisks are quite active and make great companions for those who want a pet that will interact with them. With its friendly nature and low-maintenance care routine, the Common Basilisk is a great choice for first-time lizard owners.
In Conclusion
Lizards make great pets for those who are new to reptile care. With the wide variety of species available and their generally low-maintenance requirements, it’s easy to find a lizard that suits your needs.
With some research and dedication, you can find the perfect reptilian companion for your household. From the Leopard Gecko to Frilled Dragon, there’s a lizard out there that’s perfect for you!
