Datasheet Agamas
Trade name:
Agamas
Latin name:
Agamidae
Origin:
Old World, Australia
Size:
depending on the species 8 to 120 cm
Life expectancy:
15 to 20 years
Behavior/stocking:
Solitary, agile, cold-blooded, hibernate
Groups vs. individual housing:
single keeping; small groups with a maximum of one male possible
Lining:
animal food, live food, vegetables
difficulty level
Simply Christian Mehlfuhrer, User:Chmehl, MC Siedleragame, CC BY 2.5
Agamas – charming dragons
Agamas are suitable for keeping in terrariums and are long-lived and uncomplicated housemates if certain conditions are met.
The scale reptiles are among the iguana-like species and are divided into six subfamilies. There are around 300 different species in total, of which the green water dragon and the bearded dragon are among the most well-known in terraristics.
acquisition and maintenance
In order for the Agama to feel comfortable and stay healthy, it is important to familiarize yourself with their corresponding needs and living space requirements before purchasing.
Agamas are native to many countries around the world, where they occur in a wide variety of climate zones. Some species are originally steppe dwellers, others come from tropical areas.
Ideally they should be from one trusted breeder or one pet shop be purchased nearby and have a sane and alert expression upon purchase.
Terrarium requirements
The terrarium should have at least one Size of 150 x 80 x 80 cm for an animal, if kept in groups, at least half a square meter or more should be added for each additional agame.
Even small agama species need enough space because they are quite agile and move around a lot. The respective original habitat the agame is a good guide on how the terrarium should be set up.
Retreats and places of retreat are particularly important climbing opportunities. A very important part of the equipment of the terrarium are UV heat lamps. Agamas are cold-blooded and therefore need a temperature gradient, which is caused by different heat lamps can be created.
During the day the temperature should be between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius, while a night temperature of 20 degrees is recommended, but this can vary depending on the species of animal. The ideal humidity also depends on the Agama species.
gender differences
The gender differences are usually not very pronounced in agamas. Males often have a larger head than females. Therefore, gender hardly plays a role in keeping them alone.
However, if you want to keep several animals in a group, it is important to note that a maximum of one male lives in this group.
Agama males are very territorial and would therefore fight each other in a terrarium, which often ends in the death of the defeated opponent.
feed and nutrition
The dietary requirements of agamids depend on the species in question. Usually there is one mixed diet ideal, which for the most part out animal food exists, but also plentiful Vegetables contains.
Should be several times a week live food to provide. Agamas like to eat insects such as grasshoppers or house crickets.
How much and how often is fed depends not only on the species but also on the age of the animal. Young animals usually need more food and more food than adult specimens.
acclimatization and handling
After the Agama has moved into its new home, it should initially be left completely alone for a day or two. During the acclimatization period, it is not unusual for the animal to behave rather calmly.
Once they get used to their new environment, they will become more lively. Many agamas lose their flight reflex in captivity and become tame. However, they are not cuddly toys and should not be taken out of the terrarium unless there is a need.
If they feel pressured, they show this by closing their eyes, among other things. On their body language should therefore be carefully considered. If the reptile also hisses, it should definitely be left alone.
Some owners regularly let their protégés run free, while others take a critical view of this, since the animals could become infected with bacteria and become ill.
The pros and cons should therefore be weighed up on a case-by-case basis and the best decision made from the animal’s point of view.
Furthermore, when dealing with the agama, it should also be noted that many animals live for about three months hibernation hold and their activity is restricted during this time.