I had one of these for almost 16 years. He was very laid back and friendly. He would greet me when I came home and used to love hanging out on my shoulder and in my lap for hours. He would pout and hide if I didn’t remove him from his enclosure and play with him when I got home.
Google hot dry deserts. That gave me some kind of ideas. Just remember no sand! I think that they make some kind of molding clay that works well as a substrate.
My uro loves his enclosure its 4ft long , 2ft deep, 18inches tall. 75 % of his substrate is ceramic tile with hides and rocks on the hot side , the other 25% of substrate on the hot side is a lil sandbox but of 3 inches of millet seed with a hide ther as well
I got a Mali uromastyx when I was 15 and I'm 30 now. I love him! He's never once acted aggressive, loves to be handled, lives in a dry climate, and lives off of veggies and birdseed. Once you get the tank set up with lights... they're pretty low maintenance in the long run and so fun to interact with. He also has the cutest face and chubby cheeks.
I got my male Mali as a baby and he’s 17 now. He’s been miserable since day 1 (unless I have a handful of dandelions, in which case, I’m his best bud). He just wants to be left alone and will dash into his hide as soon as he sees anyone approach. I guess it’s just his personality, but not a lot of fun. It’s a shame.
My first reptile is a Uromastyx. When I got him, the pet store told me they didn't need much care and sleep on there backs. (That sales guy was fired shortly after I already made my purchase.) Looking online I was so scared that I wasn't going to be able to care for him. But watching your videos helped give me confidence! I'm happy to say I've dobe the research and he's in a very large enclosure, with the proper heat and has been happy with me these few months. Thank you so very much for your videos.
Maru Menendez clint had mentioned it in a different video featuring the Uros i believe but they very occasionally bite, but are not prone to bite. so much so that you may own one that is born, lives, and dies without ever biting you. but it all depends on husbandry and care and the individual reptile as well. TLDR; not really
I've never handled one in person, but by looking at how they look I always thought they were mean and all out to take a piece out of you.. but after watching this, man, they almost seem like the perfect pet, lol. The substrate-eating however... xD As always, great content, Clint!
I have an Uromastyx and they're great with humans as the more you handle them the more docile they become. I've had no trouble with Oscar and he loves his vivarium at 32 to 34 degrees Celsius. They're easy to keep the only downside is that they require a lot of attention or they become skittish with you if you haven't handled them for a while.
I am sorry but the beat substrate is plain old prewashed play sand from Lowe's. Seeds can cause impaction IF the temperatures are too low and the variation of greens offered are not correct. Insects are not the best for them either. I have kept Nigerian/Geyri Uromastyx for over 4 years now. The same as the two he is handling.
This video is what convinced me to purchase a uromastyx and I love Clint so this is not any type of criticism. unfortunately after buying the set up and joining some uromastyx specific communities I've discovered that the advice Clint gives is about half right. A big no is keeping them on Millet substrate. Millet absorbs humidity and moisture and encouraged the growth of bacterial and funguses which can lead to illness and respiratory issues. Experienced Uro keepers keep them on plain tile with a dig box that is a mix of play sand and cocofiber. But this can vary, the big consensus is millets is a big no because of it's microbial harboring enviorment. They need lots of hides, and at least a 4'x2'x2' because they do roam. Following Clint's advice won't put your animal in immediate harm or anything like that, and a lot of his advice is good, but always always do research. It's hard for even the experts to know all the fine details if every species out there.
You won't regret it getting a uro! I use playsand for substrate. His basking side is about 120 f. Cooling is 90 f. He has huts he can go under to hide in and sleep.
Could you do a reptile room walk through and show off all your pets? That would be really awesome!! Love your show, love your content keep up the good work!
I love seeing the enthusiasm when people talk about exotic pets like this. It genuinely makes me smile. I think one of these dudes is gonna be my first venture outside of an aquarium. Thankyou!
Uromastyx is an amazing pet :) I have two of them. I got them as a present when I turned 18 years old and I just love them. They are siblings, but two very different personalities. The boy is very calm and well just like the yellow one in this video, while the female I have is... very scared. I had them for soon 2 years and I know she will never be happy for handling. So to all the people out there thinking about getting a uro, if u can, u should meet it/handling it first, so u know what kind of personalty you are getting. I do love my girl
@@marukuchita other Uros, for sure. But you, never lol and even if it did, it wouldn't even break skin lol. Barely a pinch.. Also what she said is wrong. You can tame any animal that isn't a predator.. And even a predator you can tame, I just don't like doing it with Monitor Lizards or big cats lol. If I had her female, I could change it's behavior in like 2 months. People don't put in the time or effort, they just like to complain. Some are super easy just like people and others are a bit tougher exterior but you can still "break" them lol. Daily handling, sitting with your hand in the tank for 10-20 mins, doing activities around the tank. ALSO THOUGH... When you house two lizards I do always find one thrives.. I bet if you gave the female her own enclosure and did daily handling she would change personalities completely.
Mine is a juvenile and when I put my hand in the tank, he wiggles not too crazy, but he also runs really fast. When we grabbed him in the pet store, he was calm. Now he’s not. He’s been in this tank for almost 2 months. Any help?
This video helped me decide on a uromastyx as the perfect pet lizard for me! I did extra research as well (because more knowledge is always a good thing) which helped me decide to get an ornate uromastyx instead of the kind shown here, but I adore my little lizard!
Hi Clint, having them on millet as a substrate is an unfortunately outdated idea. It's basically going to the bathroom and eating in the same space, which is not up to current keeper hygiene standards. Most keepers recommend a sand and soil mixture, with the soil being rich in clay so it can hold up burrows they dig.
I’ve been taking care of my friends Uromastyx for the past two years while she is away for college. I didn’t know about the bird seeds, I will definitely have to upgrade him. I have fallen in love with these guy.
Hello Clint, I LOVE your channel and think that you're doing really great work providing information on proper reptile care. I was hoping you could maybe post an updated video on the care of these amazing lizards? Your video is the first that comes up when I search "Uromastyx" and while I'm sure it was very well researched when you originally posted it, a lot of the information is very outdated and no longer considered to be best practices. For example, though it was thought that bird seed was a great substrate for them it's since been determined that birdseed is one of the worst substrates. It does not compact well so they don't get great grip, if any moisture gets in there you can end up with mold growth and eating nothing but bird seed can cause other health issues. Another issue is that it is absolutely not recommended to offer insects, even as an occasional treat. Uromastyx are strict herbivores, and do not benefit at all from insects in their diet. While some owners may offer the occasional insect as a treat, too much protein can result in serious health problems. Love your channel and I can't wait to see what critter you introduce us to next!
I'm new here-- Hi!! Great info. There is 1 hot fact about the uromastyx you didn't mention. When their temperatures are on point-- their bodies change colors. I have a yellow Niger u. geyri-- and if the temp is incorrect, hew will be a muddy color. When the temps are proper-- bright yellow . Very cool. They also love dandelion greens and the yellow flowers. Millet seen is great for substrate, and if you water the seeds on 1 side of the tank, they sprout. Uros love those sprouts too.
@ClintsReptiles I’d love to see an updated version of this video, particularly regarding the substrate recommendations. Uromastyx geyri is still regularly sold to inexperienced keepers at pet expos with heartbreaking results. Perhaps a conversation video with one of the breeders, such a Philip Lietz who is in Colorado.
i love uromastyx so very much, probably my favourite lizards to handle. but wow clint is NOT LYING about their enclosure needing to be hot, we had to give these guys their own little room at work cos their heat lamps were making the other enclosures nearby too warm!
Got our rescues. Need time but doing good. Previously had no heat, tank or substrate. Kept in a cardboard box. Now in tanks with substrate, heat, uvb, and food and hides. Love and appreciate all the advice we got here from you. Thank you.
Another quality video! You got me so hyped up about these I may just have to go look for one this weekend at the Cleveland reptile show! Just love these little guys!
Thank you so much for the video! Very interesting and informative. I've had my eye on an uromastyx at my local pet atore, and as someone who hasn't owned a reptile before, this was extremely helpful in me making the choice to bring him home. Thank you again!
I've been waiting impatiently for this video :) They're so stinkin cute I can't wait to see if repticon has them next year. As always, excellent video, very entertaining and informative. Keep up the great work!
ReptileMan 0912 really? I see them everywhere in tampa tbh, theres a pet shop in oldsmar that has them and i saw so many at repticon and learned about them there.
The stool thing is so true! If my beardies haven't pooped before I get them out I'll often give them a quick soak in a luke warm bath just to avoid the possibility of having to potentially change my whole outfit (its totally happened before); an issue that never occurs with my uromastyx (Odo). Not that I handle her too frequently though because she's pretty wild still haha. *edit* Also, I agree with the general sentiment pertaining to field collected specimens. However, a local pet shop had her and she's the only one they've ever carried and since she stayed there for two months with no sign of anyone taking her in I opted to bring her home since they're husbandry wasn't quite right for her. Love your videos as always Clint, great work!
I used to own a beardie, but he passed away about a year ago. Today I went to a reptile expo looking for a new one, and im coming home with two uromas! Just like the video..one orange and one yellow..I named them Bert and ernie 🤣 for anyone curious about getting one these guys are so cute! Also they love head rubs..
Love this! Would disagree on score though. More like 4.2 out of 5. Not sure availability is as big a problem and set up is a small pain to set up but once done they are SUPER low maintenance . Anyway love the vid and all your points, thanks Clint!
I've had a uro for over a year and I can vouch for pretty much everything you've said. Easiest thing I've ever taken care of and I love him. Reptiles rule!
Uromastyx are wonderful! I held one as a little girl at a pet store and that’s what started my love for lizards. I didn’t bring that guy home but I have a few of them now and gosh, they are so great! ❤ I love these videos! They are always so interesting and informative.
Clint , can you do a video about the Rankins dragon and the clown agama/ painted dragon ? They are like little BD's. The are good for people who don't have space for a 4/6 foot tank for a BD.
You think you could do a video over a small iguana species? I can't find ANYTHING over a specific species. It's like searching "mali/saharan/ornate uromastyx" but it's generalized to just "uromastyx" and I have trouble differentiating between them. Also, great video as always! As soon as I get the tank ready, I'm getting my own uro. I want to watch them dig!
Just got a uromastyx! I wanted another bearded dragon but in the end decided on one of these little guys because I loved the fact I wouldn't have to deal with insects!
Since you already did a head-to-head video of these guys vs. bearded dragons, you should do one of these guys vs. blue tongued skinks. I'd be interested to hear how you feel they compare!
You’re killing me man! After watching your videos I feel like I need every lizard lol they’re all so cool! I have two Bearded Dragons. (First was planned the second was an adoption of a MBD case that someone returned to my brothers petco) but after these cool guys I can’t help but think lizards are the best pet ever lol much love and please keep making Videos, you’re the best!
Me and brother had 2 of these. They are awesome lizards! We had to get rid of them but they found a new home. Both girls. Our tan one was named Cleopatra, and our darker red/orange one was Aphrodite.
Clint, I love your videos and it's genuinely fun watching someone so passionate in educating and caring for these animals. Have you ever thought about doing an occasional vlog showing some of your animals and their enclosures, feeding, etc? I got into reptiles about 2 years ago and have a Yellow-belly Ball Python. Her name is Matilda and she is everything I could have asked for in my first reptile, but naturally, I think it's time to graduate to other things. Thanks to your videos I've learned about so many reptiles and how to care for them. Uromastyx is now on my list!
Um I got an enclosure for my uro pepper that was made for uros but it had this styrophome backing and when I got it set up, the heat lamp melted the top and backing in the enclosure WHEN HE WAS IN IT!!!!!! I was so stressed out that pepper was gonna get burned or hurt when we were trying to get a new cage top and backing! We got him a new cage like 90 mins later my mom finnaly came and had a new cage for him I felt bad for my poor baby😔
2 years later and I have to tell you I’ve seen some reptile stores have babies now that are captive bred so I can tell you it had moved up to a 3 out of 5 now!
I had my uro on seed bedding at one point. he would only eat the seeds and not eat his actual meals and he didn't go to the bathroom for a super long time and when he finally started to, it's was full of undigested seeds. so I don't really recommend using that.
A rando: I want an Ackie, but I don't have the money. Clint: Then you my friend, should get a uromastyx. A rando: what the heck is a uromastyx? Clint: I am so glad, you asked.
I held one of these guys at my local pet shop the other day. It came right up to the glass to say hi! It was so chill and climbed right up on my shoulder.
i loveeee my URO !!! Hes been so amazing i do keep mine on sand because thats what they are use to living in but i feed him his seeds and greens! They are supper rare where i live so im happy that i own one ^.^ But yes the lighting is harddddd haha. Thank you for educating people on uros!
Awesome pets and a great video I have to say I’ve been doing some reptifresh sand and coconut blend substrate, the humidity was tough to get right at first but it seems to work well and he can even dig down a bit which he loves
Tip: Buy a halogen flood light from a hardware store for the basking spot. You can get two for about $13 instead of spending $50 or more for a hot mercury vapor bulb at a pet store. The only downside is that halogen doesn't put out uvb so you'll most likely want to get another bulb for that. But, overall, lighting didn't have to be that expensive for uromastyx.
How does the edible substrate work with their elimination? I mean, I'm guessing that we would want to avoid their eating any soiled substrate. You can clean it up of course, but wouldn't it spread over time? Maybe they also go in a certain place and so it's easy to prepare for that? Inquiring minds want to know.
Not sure if all uros are like this, but a relative who's kept one told me that his tends to go defecate/urinate in one spot a little aways away from the basking spot (away from the seed pile, too!) so cleanup is quite easy. YMMV, though, as every uromastyx is a little different.
"That's like if I lived in--" "Cheetos!" Amazing. Had no idea these cuties could be housed on seeds. Definitely bumps them up the list! Just need to find a breeder, and enclosure, and ... well, someday.
Help! I have no idea what substrate to use for my new Uromastyx. Everything is so confusing online. Some, like Clint, recommend seeds. But some say that's not a good idea as they may not eat their greens if they eat a lot of seeds and they need the leafy greens to hydrate. Some say play sand, some say to avoid all sands due to impaction. Some say tile, but then they won't have anywhere to dig. Some say a mat but then some say they can trap parasites over time. Someone recommended aquarium style pebbles but now I'm worries my little one will end up eating one. I honestly don't know what to do. Why is substrate so confusing? I could really use some help...
Don’t use seeds or solid substrate. A deep layer of a soil/playsand/clay mix would be best. It mimics the substrate of their natural habitat and holds their burrows. Impaction is caused by improper husbandry, not loose substrate. As long as their husbandry is correct they’ll be able to pass it no problem. The website reptifiles has a care sheet with more information.
I currently live in their native environment, I looked them up because I kept seeing wild ones that are much much larger than these guys. Temperatures out here reach 115-125F and despite what you might think humidity out here actually can reach almost unbearable heights. If hell exists these lizards would thrive there.
My beardie, Puffy, died last summer after like 15 years, and I've been wanting another hardy lizard. I think you may have convinced me! I do find millet and bird seed substrate interesting.
What types of Uromastyxs are they? Also, should I get a baby one or should I adopt an adult? I fell in love with Tegus about 2 years ago but since I never had a reptile before I thought I should start with smaller ones and Uromastyx just seem to be perfect for many reasons. I love your videos by the way, you are the absolute best!!
Tip: I use a sand mix as substrate :/ But a pro: I mix this with other sorts of substrates to keep their holes intact when they dig them... its perfect
My wife and I bought a Uromastyx when she was about 6 months pregnant with our first son. That was 22.5 years ago. He's STILL alive and healthy. Going strong. This guy is the best reptile I've ever owned. Period. We have him in a 20 tall aquarium, with a coarse sand substrate. I made a shelter from shale. I stacked and glued some pieces together in a footprint of about 6" deep x 4" wide x 3" tall, as walls for his house. Then, I took a long, flat piece of shale and put it across of the two stacks, like a bridge. That piece is about 10" x 6". When he digs out the sand from the floor, he has a great little hidey-hole to sleep in. I have a UV heat bulb over his home and the shale retains the heat very well. I have another normal 75w bulb on the other side of the aquarium for even light distribution and additional temperature stability. These lights are in those silver clamp on fixtures and we have them on a timer. It stays at about 90° or more, during the day and cools to the ambient temperature of the room at night, which is +/- 70°. I do need to point out, though, that mine does not have a dry stool. (2:48) He pees at the same time as he poops, so it's ultra-squirty. The stool itself is solid, but the urine makes it sloppy. It does eventually dry, but it's really messy at first.
Your the damn bill Nye of reptiles. I love it! We just got our little buddy this week. Hes a little grumpier than yours are, very tounge and tail flicky.
I have a suggestion for your species-specific videos like this one. Could we get a link to websites you would recommend for vital statistics for these critters in the dooblydoo? I've noticed online there can be conflicting information on different websites for details like temperature ranges needed for enclosure, average size of the adult animal, humidity, etc. I recognize there multiple species with different care requirements but it would be nice to know someplace reliable we could visit for those specifics.
the humidity in my apartment hovers around 60%... i live in houston and have fish tanks and lots of houseplants. I wonder if that’s too high for a uromastyx?
Yes 60% is way too high for uros, anything over 40% is too high, ideally you'd wanna be in the low 30s inside the enclosure, I don't know if that'd be achievable for you though.
@Heterandria4mosa You could always try a dehumidifier in the uro enclosure, if you get a well built wood enclosure it'll help with humidity too, just a thought! If you're happy with you current pets no to change it :))
My Uromastyxs, I have two, aren’t vegetarians at all. I offer them leaves and vegetables regularly but they don’t eat them maybe occasionally. I use desert send and some stones as substrate and it’s perfectly fine. They are definitely tough lizards. I decided to move them to a new terrarium and they didn’t eat for almost a month. Eventually, I gave up, put them back and they started to eat within 10 minutes
I had one of these for almost 16 years. He was very laid back and friendly. He would greet me when I came home and used to love hanging out on my shoulder and in my lap for hours. He would pout and hide if I didn’t remove him from his enclosure and play with him when I got home.
Road Rage 810 same, my uromastyx hides in a dark corner and pouts also and tries to get my attention by scratching the glass and play with him.
What species was your uromastyx?
I was already sold on getting one of these guys, but this comment really did it!
@@alisonadkins3877 Did you get one? How is it?
Hello, what kind of enclosure did you have?
It would be neat if you could show their enclosures in these videos.
im kinda curious on the enclosures also i actually decided id really really love to have one and would like to see what their cages should look like
Google hot dry deserts. That gave me some kind of ideas. Just remember no sand! I think that they make some kind of molding clay that works well as a substrate.
Guys there's the enclosure link in the description
ayman the the dino, Roblox, and minecraft gamer yes but those aren’t suited for adult uromastyx we want to see adult enclosures
My uro loves his enclosure its 4ft long , 2ft deep, 18inches tall. 75 % of his substrate is ceramic tile with hides and rocks on the hot side , the other 25% of substrate on the hot side is a lil sandbox but of 3 inches of millet seed with a hide ther as well
I got a Mali uromastyx when I was 15 and I'm 30 now. I love him! He's never once acted aggressive, loves to be handled, lives in a dry climate, and lives off of veggies and birdseed. Once you get the tank set up with lights... they're pretty low maintenance in the long run and so fun to interact with. He also has the cutest face and chubby cheeks.
What did you set your tank up with I'm getting one in a couple days
I got my male Mali as a baby and he’s 17 now. He’s been miserable since day 1 (unless I have a handful of dandelions, in which case, I’m his best bud). He just wants to be left alone and will dash into his hide as soon as he sees anyone approach. I guess it’s just his personality, but not a lot of fun. It’s a shame.
That's very rare for a captive bred, was it a wild caught baby? @@mattp422
My first reptile is a Uromastyx. When I got him, the pet store told me they didn't need much care and sleep on there backs. (That sales guy was fired shortly after I already made my purchase.) Looking online I was so scared that I wasn't going to be able to care for him. But watching your videos helped give me confidence! I'm happy to say I've dobe the research and he's in a very large enclosure, with the proper heat and has been happy with me these few months. Thank you so very much for your videos.
thx 4 sharing, this made my day! :)
Do they bite?
Maru Menendez clint had mentioned it in a different video featuring the Uros i believe but they very occasionally bite, but are not prone to bite. so much so that you may own one that is born, lives, and dies without ever biting you. but it all depends on husbandry and care and the individual reptile as well.
TLDR; not really
Bingk Martain my uromastyx is super cute I like joking around and saying that he called my mom nasty 😂
Update on the guy?
I've never handled one in person, but by looking at how they look I always thought they were mean and all out to take a piece out of you.. but after watching this, man, they almost seem like the perfect pet, lol.
The substrate-eating however... xD
As always, great content, Clint!
Exotics Lair I don’t think I’ve ever heard of this lizard except for maybe a few times but most likely not and now I want one
I have an Uromastyx and they're great with humans as the more you handle them the more docile they become. I've had no trouble with Oscar and he loves his vivarium at 32 to 34 degrees Celsius. They're easy to keep the only downside is that they require a lot of attention or they become skittish with you if you haven't handled them for a while.
Millet as a substrate is nutritious and has only one drawback: moth eggs.
I am sorry but the beat substrate is plain old prewashed play sand from Lowe's. Seeds can cause impaction IF the temperatures are too low and the variation of greens offered are not correct. Insects are not the best for them either. I have kept Nigerian/Geyri Uromastyx for over 4 years now. The same as the two he is handling.
What's up Exotic?
This video is what convinced me to purchase a uromastyx and I love Clint so this is not any type of criticism. unfortunately after buying the set up and joining some uromastyx specific communities I've discovered that the advice Clint gives is about half right.
A big no is keeping them on Millet substrate. Millet absorbs humidity and moisture and encouraged the growth of bacterial and funguses which can lead to illness and respiratory issues. Experienced Uro keepers keep them on plain tile with a dig box that is a mix of play sand and cocofiber. But this can vary, the big consensus is millets is a big no because of it's microbial harboring enviorment. They need lots of hides, and at least a 4'x2'x2' because they do roam.
Following Clint's advice won't put your animal in immediate harm or anything like that, and a lot of his advice is good, but always always do research. It's hard for even the experts to know all the fine details if every species out there.
You won't regret it getting a uro! I use playsand for substrate. His basking side is about 120 f. Cooling is 90 f. He has huts he can go under to hide in and sleep.
I can't wait until you're famous. You're doing great things!
Fast forward a year...... He is!!!
@@HOPIIGK yesss
Yes I hope so too! :)
forward 2 years later and he hasn’t uploaded in a while
@@ThanoseTheOneAndOnly he streams a lot more now, but he still uploads a little bit
Could you do a reptile room walk through and show off all your pets? That would be really awesome!! Love your show, love your content keep up the good work!
I agree
I love seeing the enthusiasm when people talk about exotic pets like this. It genuinely makes me smile. I think one of these dudes is gonna be my first venture outside of an aquarium. Thankyou!
I've had my mali uromastyx for over 13 years now & shes the cutest && the sweetest reptile ever! Highly recommend getting one(:
I love the honesty about the costs! When youre upfront about that stuff it really helps with trying to figure out if you can afford one
After seeing this video i decided this is the best pet lizard for me! Bought a yellow male uromastyx at a reptile show near me. Thanks Clint!!!
love uro's. they have the cutest frog faces.
Lol 😂
Uromastyx is an amazing pet :) I have two of them. I got them as a present when I turned 18 years old and I just love them. They are siblings, but two very different personalities. The boy is very calm and well just like the yellow one in this video, while the female I have is... very scared. I had them for soon 2 years and I know she will never be happy for handling. So to all the people out there thinking about getting a uro, if u can, u should meet it/handling it first, so u know what kind of personalty you are getting.
I do love my girl
Just like human women....very scary and mean.
Do they bite?
Maru Menendez On some occasions yes i have seen females biting males 🤣
@@marukuchita other Uros, for sure. But you, never lol and even if it did, it wouldn't even break skin lol. Barely a pinch.. Also what she said is wrong. You can tame any animal that isn't a predator.. And even a predator you can tame, I just don't like doing it with Monitor Lizards or big cats lol. If I had her female, I could change it's behavior in like 2 months. People don't put in the time or effort, they just like to complain. Some are super easy just like people and others are a bit tougher exterior but you can still "break" them lol. Daily handling, sitting with your hand in the tank for 10-20 mins, doing activities around the tank. ALSO THOUGH... When you house two lizards I do always find one thrives.. I bet if you gave the female her own enclosure and did daily handling she would change personalities completely.
Mine is a juvenile and when I put my hand in the tank, he wiggles not too crazy, but he also runs really fast. When we grabbed him in the pet store, he was calm. Now he’s not. He’s been in this tank for almost 2 months. Any help?
Noone:
Literally noone:
Clint: *Sees literally any reptile* "This may be the COOLEST reptile in the world!"
Love your show 😅
I go into every video thinking "The best? Really?" and leave every video thinking "Yeah, I guess I can see that"
This video helped me decide on a uromastyx as the perfect pet lizard for me! I did extra research as well (because more knowledge is always a good thing) which helped me decide to get an ornate uromastyx instead of the kind shown here, but I adore my little lizard!
Hi Clint, having them on millet as a substrate is an unfortunately outdated idea. It's basically going to the bathroom and eating in the same space, which is not up to current keeper hygiene standards. Most keepers recommend a sand and soil mixture, with the soil being rich in clay so it can hold up burrows they dig.
Hello. I'm a brand new uro owner so could you give me some ideas of substrates that I can mix together?
@@harleighsumrow6148playsand peatmoss and topsoil, you can also add excavator clay to hold burrows
Awesome video once again but that catch at 4:23 🔥🔥🔥
I’ve been taking care of my friends Uromastyx for the past two years while she is away for college. I didn’t know about the bird seeds, I will definitely have to upgrade him. I have fallen in love with these guy.
Hehe I love the way they walk, it’s just like monitors, they just wobble back & forth as they stomp around 😂😂 so cute
I used to have a uromastyx his name was spaz, he lived about 10 years. Very good pet lizard!
Yeah they seem really awesome, would be a good one for me.
Uromastyx sounds a bit like an katheter lubricant brand :D But their cool anyways.
mini ankylosaurus 😱😱😮😵
Jacob Guy that's what i thought 😂😂😂
Now that you said that I can't see them as anything else but ankylosaurus.😁
If you put their face n tail on a beardy's body.. perfect.
As it is, thx for pointing that out. Makes me happy, i was a dino kid way back when.
LOL 😂
More Nodosaur than Ankylosaur since they don't have tail clubs.
Hello Clint, I LOVE your channel and think that you're doing really great work providing information on proper reptile care. I was hoping you could maybe post an updated video on the care of these amazing lizards? Your video is the first that comes up when I search "Uromastyx" and while I'm sure it was very well researched when you originally posted it, a lot of the information is very outdated and no longer considered to be best practices. For example, though it was thought that bird seed was a great substrate for them it's since been determined that birdseed is one of the worst substrates. It does not compact well so they don't get great grip, if any moisture gets in there you can end up with mold growth and eating nothing but bird seed can cause other health issues. Another issue is that it is absolutely not recommended to offer insects, even as an occasional treat. Uromastyx are strict herbivores, and do not benefit at all from insects in their diet. While some owners may offer the occasional insect as a treat, too much protein can result in serious health problems.
Love your channel and I can't wait to see what critter you introduce us to next!
I’m so glad that there is a video on the uromastryx. I own a yellow uro, named Apollo and I keep him on millet. He is doing great.
Thanks for listening to my suggestion really wanted to know more about these amazing lizards 😊
We really appreciate the suggestions :)
A crocodile skink would be different also if you have one 😊
@@ClintsReptiles how do you feel about Egyptian uromastyx
Love your videos clint, you're knowledgeable and passionate
I'm new here-- Hi!! Great info. There is 1 hot fact about the uromastyx you didn't mention. When their temperatures are on point-- their bodies change colors. I have a yellow Niger u. geyri-- and if the temp is incorrect, hew will be a muddy color. When the temps are proper-- bright yellow . Very cool. They also love dandelion greens and the yellow flowers. Millet seen is great for substrate, and if you water the seeds on 1 side of the tank, they sprout. Uros love those sprouts too.
@ClintsReptiles I’d love to see an updated version of this video, particularly regarding the substrate recommendations. Uromastyx geyri is still regularly sold to inexperienced keepers at pet expos with heartbreaking results. Perhaps a conversation video with one of the breeders, such a Philip Lietz who is in Colorado.
i love uromastyx so very much, probably my favourite lizards to handle. but wow clint is NOT LYING about their enclosure needing to be hot, we had to give these guys their own little room at work cos their heat lamps were making the other enclosures nearby too warm!
I recently bought an Uro because of you! I love mine so much! He has been pretty easy for me as somewhat experienced reptile owner
Got our rescues. Need time but doing good. Previously had no heat, tank or substrate. Kept in a cardboard box. Now in tanks with substrate, heat, uvb, and food and hides. Love and appreciate all the advice we got here from you. Thank you.
Another quality video! You got me so hyped up about these I may just have to go look for one this weekend at the Cleveland reptile show! Just love these little guys!
Great video!! I wondered if you could include expected life span of each reptile? Thanks
Google
Thank you so much for the video! Very interesting and informative. I've had my eye on an uromastyx at my local pet atore, and as someone who hasn't owned a reptile before, this was extremely helpful in me making the choice to bring him home. Thank you again!
These guys are adorable and very mellow. So friendly and loving.
I've been waiting impatiently for this video :) They're so stinkin cute I can't wait to see if repticon has them next year. As always, excellent video, very entertaining and informative. Keep up the great work!
Are you mentioning Repticon Tampa by any chance? I went this week and literally only one seller had them
ReptileMan 0912 Omg they're so difficult to find. A pet store had them for $400 but I dont like the ornates as much.
ReptileMan 0912 I check both the tampa (when I visit family) and tucson one.
ReptileMan 0912 really? I see them everywhere in tampa tbh, theres a pet shop in oldsmar that has them and i saw so many at repticon and learned about them there.
The stool thing is so true! If my beardies haven't pooped before I get them out I'll often give them a quick soak in a luke warm bath just to avoid the possibility of having to potentially change my whole outfit (its totally happened before); an issue that never occurs with my uromastyx (Odo). Not that I handle her too frequently though because she's pretty wild still haha. *edit* Also, I agree with the general sentiment pertaining to field collected specimens. However, a local pet shop had her and she's the only one they've ever carried and since she stayed there for two months with no sign of anyone taking her in I opted to bring her home since they're husbandry wasn't quite right for her. Love your videos as always Clint, great work!
How is the uromastryx doing? Trying to decide between a beardie and a uromastryx. I like to handle and have a beardie on my shoulder when I'm working
My family have considered getting one for a while so I decided to do my own research. Really useful video, thank you so much
I have 2 uromastyx well they hate being handled but they make wonderful display animals. I love them though so cool looking!
I love uromastyx!!!! Have waited for so long for this video.....Now all I need is a chuckwalla video. Pretty please Clint and team!!!!’n
Clint thank you for this video and the Uromastyx/ Bearded dragon video. We just got our Uro today :). He is a tiny nugget lol.
Such neat creatures. Clint your enthusiasm is infectious.
I used to own a beardie, but he passed away about a year ago. Today I went to a reptile expo looking for a new one, and im coming home with two uromas! Just like the video..one orange and one yellow..I named them Bert and ernie 🤣 for anyone curious about getting one these guys are so cute! Also they love head rubs..
How are they doing? Trying to decide between a beardie and a uromastryx
Love this! Would disagree on score though. More like 4.2 out of 5. Not sure availability is as big a problem and set up is a small pain to set up but once done they are SUPER low maintenance . Anyway love the vid and all your points, thanks Clint!
I've had a uro for over a year and I can vouch for pretty much everything you've said. Easiest thing I've ever taken care of and I love him. Reptiles rule!
Uromastyx are wonderful! I held one as a little girl at a pet store and that’s what started my love for lizards. I didn’t bring that guy home but I have a few of them now and gosh, they are so great! ❤ I love these videos! They are always so interesting and informative.
Clint , can you do a video about the Rankins dragon and the clown agama/ painted dragon ? They are like little BD's. The are good for people who don't have space for a 4/6 foot tank for a BD.
You think you could do a video over a small iguana species? I can't find ANYTHING over a specific species. It's like searching "mali/saharan/ornate uromastyx" but it's generalized to just "uromastyx" and I have trouble differentiating between them.
Also, great video as always! As soon as I get the tank ready, I'm getting my own uro. I want to watch them dig!
I love how every lizard is the best lizard in your eyes really shows the love you have for these animals (:
Your videos are so helpful to me when I’m trying to choose another pet! You are awesome!
Just got a uromastyx! I wanted another bearded dragon but in the end decided on one of these little guys because I loved the fact I wouldn't have to deal with insects!
How is it doing? Trying to decide between a beardie and a uromastryx
Since you already did a head-to-head video of these guys vs. bearded dragons, you should do one of these guys vs. blue tongued skinks. I'd be interested to hear how you feel they compare!
I adore Clint 😭 he's just seems like such a sweet human 💕
This guy is so adorable talking about the lizards. I'm very interested in uromastyx, so great video!
Thanks. Sadly dont see enough vids on Uro's. I own a male Mali and a male/female Saharan and these lizards are my fave.
We had a female yellow Niger Uromastyx as a family pet. She was the most amazing pet.. so adorable and she loved to cuddle.
A snuggle dinosaur has got to be the dream 😄
YES! Finally, the video I've really been waiting for! Thanks!
You’re killing me man! After watching your videos I feel like I need every lizard lol they’re all so cool! I have two Bearded Dragons. (First was planned the second was an adoption of a MBD case that someone returned to my brothers petco) but after these cool guys I can’t help but think lizards are the best pet ever lol much love and please keep making Videos, you’re the best!
I’ve been thinking of getting one for a while. I think I’ll get one because of this video! (:
BusStop’s Pets I'm a huge fan
Me and brother had 2 of these. They are awesome lizards! We had to get rid of them but they found a new home. Both girls. Our tan one was named Cleopatra, and our darker red/orange one was Aphrodite.
Thank you for going into such depth in the video. I also appreciate the time breakdown of where to find specific information in the video.
Clint, I love your videos and it's genuinely fun watching someone so passionate in educating and caring for these animals. Have you ever thought about doing an occasional vlog showing some of your animals and their enclosures, feeding, etc? I got into reptiles about 2 years ago and have a Yellow-belly Ball Python. Her name is Matilda and she is everything I could have asked for in my first reptile, but naturally, I think it's time to graduate to other things. Thanks to your videos I've learned about so many reptiles and how to care for them. Uromastyx is now on my list!
Um I got an enclosure for my uro pepper that was made for uros but it had this styrophome backing and when I got it set up, the heat lamp melted the top and backing in the enclosure WHEN HE WAS IN IT!!!!!! I was so stressed out that pepper was gonna get burned or hurt when we were trying to get a new cage top and backing! We got him a new cage like 90 mins later my mom finnaly came and had a new cage for him I felt bad for my poor baby😔
2 years later and I have to tell you I’ve seen some reptile stores have babies now that are captive bred so I can tell you it had moved up to a 3 out of 5 now!
4:20 amazing catch
I will be honest i already know alot of what you say but you are very entertaining with a true passion for reptiles keep up the good work matey
I had my uro on seed bedding at one point. he would only eat the seeds and not eat his actual meals and he didn't go to the bathroom for a super long time and when he finally started to, it's was full of undigested seeds. so I don't really recommend using that.
A rando: I want an Ackie, but I don't have the money.
Clint: Then you my friend, should get a uromastyx.
A rando: what the heck is a uromastyx?
Clint: I am so glad, you asked.
Your the best reptile “teacher” for info and care
I love that the wild types are so varied and colorful. Lovely.
I've had the same uromastyx since I was around 5, so he is around 17 now and still kicking
I really like your channel I learn new things and new types of reptiles
I held one of these guys at my local pet shop the other day. It came right up to the glass to say hi! It was so chill and climbed right up on my shoulder.
I have a leopard gecko right now and she is spoiled. I’ve nailed the care for the past 5 years and I think I’m ready for a Uromastyx I would love one
i loveeee my URO !!! Hes been so amazing i do keep mine on sand because thats what they are use to living in but i feed him his seeds and greens! They are supper rare where i live so im happy that i own one ^.^ But yes the lighting is harddddd haha. Thank you for educating people on uros!
Wouldn't we all like to live in Cheetos?!
Awesome pets and a great video I have to say I’ve been doing some reptifresh sand and coconut blend substrate, the humidity was tough to get right at first but it seems to work well and he can even dig down a bit which he loves
most enthusiastic youtuber ever
6:15 there's just something about animals sitting on top of other animals that gets me everytime.
Tip: Buy a halogen flood light from a hardware store for the basking spot. You can get two for about $13 instead of spending $50 or more for a hot mercury vapor bulb at a pet store. The only downside is that halogen doesn't put out uvb so you'll most likely want to get another bulb for that. But, overall, lighting didn't have to be that expensive for uromastyx.
K. James if you are spending that much mercury vapor bulbs your getting ripped off
todd lahaye Where can you find mercury vapor bulbs two for $13?
K. James didn't say i could 2 for 13 but one is only like 30 not 50 yhats all
Excellent! I'm also waiting for a video on the Chuckwalla lizard! :)
I've been waiting a while for him to cover chuckies.
How does the edible substrate work with their elimination? I mean, I'm guessing that we would want to avoid their eating any soiled substrate. You can clean it up of course, but wouldn't it spread over time? Maybe they also go in a certain place and so it's easy to prepare for that? Inquiring minds want to know.
Not sure if all uros are like this, but a relative who's kept one told me that his tends to go defecate/urinate in one spot a little aways away from the basking spot (away from the seed pile, too!) so cleanup is quite easy. YMMV, though, as every uromastyx is a little different.
@@thejasminedragonmerchant6843 Thank you for your input. Maybe they are a little like cats in that way? ;) They sure are cool!
@@Nemodog You're welcome! And yeah, they're definitely cool.
"That's like if I lived in--" "Cheetos!"
Amazing. Had no idea these cuties could be housed on seeds. Definitely bumps them up the list! Just need to find a breeder, and enclosure, and ... well, someday.
Fantastic channel Clint. Thank you for what you do. Peace!
Help! I have no idea what substrate to use for my new Uromastyx. Everything is so confusing online.
Some, like Clint, recommend seeds. But some say that's not a good idea as they may not eat their greens if they eat a lot of seeds and they need the leafy greens to hydrate.
Some say play sand, some say to avoid all sands due to impaction. Some say tile, but then they won't have anywhere to dig. Some say a mat but then some say they can trap parasites over time. Someone recommended aquarium style pebbles but now I'm worries my little one will end up eating one. I honestly don't know what to do. Why is substrate so confusing? I could really use some help...
Don’t use seeds or solid substrate. A deep layer of a soil/playsand/clay mix would be best. It mimics the substrate of their natural habitat and holds their burrows. Impaction is caused by improper husbandry, not loose substrate. As long as their husbandry is correct they’ll be able to pass it no problem. The website reptifiles has a care sheet with more information.
I currently live in their native environment, I looked them up because I kept seeing wild ones that are much much larger than these guys. Temperatures out here reach 115-125F and despite what you might think humidity out here actually can reach almost unbearable heights. If hell exists these lizards would thrive there.
Thanks to this video for helping me
Decide to get one of these as my first reptile
My beardie, Puffy, died last summer after like 15 years, and I've been wanting another hardy lizard. I think you may have convinced me! I do find millet and bird seed substrate interesting.
What types of Uromastyxs are they? Also, should I get a baby one or should I adopt an adult? I fell in love with Tegus about 2 years ago but since I never had a reptile before I thought I should start with smaller ones and Uromastyx just seem to be perfect for many reasons. I love your videos by the way, you are the absolute best!!
Tip: I use a sand mix as substrate :/ But a pro: I mix this with other sorts of substrates to keep their holes intact when they dig them... its perfect
Very well done video, thanks for the scale and breakdown - it's very helpful! Thumbs up!
Getting one today 😄 just moved my skink into a bigger enclosure so now I have a 65 gallon just lying around begging to be filled!
I know this was 2 years ago but could you show us how to setup an enclosure for one of these guys!?
My wife and I bought a Uromastyx when she was about 6 months pregnant with our first son. That was 22.5 years ago. He's STILL alive and healthy. Going strong. This guy is the best reptile I've ever owned. Period.
We have him in a 20 tall aquarium, with a coarse sand substrate. I made a shelter from shale. I stacked and glued some pieces together in a footprint of about 6" deep x 4" wide x 3" tall, as walls for his house. Then, I took a long, flat piece of shale and put it across of the two stacks, like a bridge. That piece is about 10" x 6". When he digs out the sand from the floor, he has a great little hidey-hole to sleep in.
I have a UV heat bulb over his home and the shale retains the heat very well. I have another normal 75w bulb on the other side of the aquarium for even light distribution and additional temperature stability. These lights are in those silver clamp on fixtures and we have them on a timer. It stays at about 90° or more, during the day and cools to the ambient temperature of the room at night, which is +/- 70°.
I do need to point out, though, that mine does not have a dry stool. (2:48) He pees at the same time as he poops, so it's ultra-squirty. The stool itself is solid, but the urine makes it sloppy. It does eventually dry, but it's really messy at first.
Mine is around 17, had him ever since I can remember
Getting two today. Rescues.
Your the damn bill Nye of reptiles. I love it! We just got our little buddy this week. Hes a little grumpier than yours are, very tounge and tail flicky.
I have a suggestion for your species-specific videos like this one. Could we get a link to websites you would recommend for vital statistics for these critters in the dooblydoo? I've noticed online there can be conflicting information on different websites for details like temperature ranges needed for enclosure, average size of the adult animal, humidity, etc. I recognize there multiple species with different care requirements but it would be nice to know someplace reliable we could visit for those specifics.
the humidity in my apartment hovers around 60%... i live in houston and have fish tanks and lots of houseplants. I wonder if that’s too high for a uromastyx?
Yes 60% is way too high for uros, anything over 40% is too high, ideally you'd wanna be in the low 30s inside the enclosure, I don't know if that'd be achievable for you though.
@@Leila-ys5qs oh well 🤷🏼♂️ i’ll just stick to crustaceans they like my muggy apartment 🦞
@Heterandria4mosa You could always try a dehumidifier in the uro enclosure, if you get a well built wood enclosure it'll help with humidity too, just a thought! If you're happy with you current pets no to change it :))
So so cool !!! Moroccan Uromastyx would be my first choice of reptile, just such a beautiful creatures.
My Uromastyxs, I have two, aren’t vegetarians at all. I offer them leaves and vegetables regularly but they don’t eat them maybe occasionally. I use desert send and some stones as substrate and it’s perfectly fine. They are definitely tough lizards. I decided to move them to a new terrarium and they didn’t eat for almost a month. Eventually, I gave up, put them back and they started to eat within 10 minutes