Butterfly Agama Q's

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Hoyo12

Plecostomus
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Jun 23, 2009
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Looking for some advice on how deep I should have my substrate IF I happen to get Leiolepis guttata (Giant Butterfly Agama). It would be a custom tank to accommodate the future size of the lizard, but the one thing that no one can seem to put out there is exactly how deep the substrate should be (3ft? 4ft?). Also, what would be recommended for substrate? Would basic play sand do just fine? Anything else easy to burrow in that would be recommended?

For anyone not familiar with this lizard, Butterfly Agamas in general are very well known for digging. The problem is that most people don't supply a deep enough/large enough digging space for these lizards, and so as the years go one their front feet usually become worn down to just little stubs. I've heard multiple stories of this happening, and just want to have more of a proper idea as to what would be needed to prevent this, if possible at all.
Any advice or ideas would be appreciated. Like I said, this is NOT a for sure thing; I would just like an idea as to what I would be up against.
 
Never kept them, but they must be digging for a reason?
If its to create burrows or a shelter to live in, play sand or any kind of mulch wont work, it will just cave in around them as they dig.
I would use plain ole backyard dirt, you may have to compact it a little bit, and do some experimenting to get it the right consistency so they can dig tunnels in it, and it will hold its shape, doesnt cave in.
Probably pretty deep, at least 18" to start.

Sounds like you need to do more research on them.
 
I would say about a foot of substrate would be fine.
Edit: Wow, these must be the larger species, three feet would be a good amount.
 
Never kept them, but they must be digging for a reason?
If its to create burrows or a shelter to live in, play sand or any kind of mulch wont work, it will just cave in around them as they dig.
I would use plain ole backyard dirt, you may have to compact it a little bit, and do some experimenting to get it the right consistency so they can dig tunnels in it, and it will hold its shape, doesnt cave in.
Probably pretty deep, at least 18" to start.

Sounds like you need to do more research on them.
There is very little info on the species - hence the reason I was looking for anyone else with possible experience. ;) Otherwise you freakin' bet I've been doing research on them, but there is very little to be found on them. The species is rarely seen, and they can be difficult to keep for health reasons, constant digging, etc. This is supposedly why the colorful species is usually fairly cheap when they are found.
I would say about a foot of substrate would be fine.
Edit: Wow, these must be the larger species, three feet would be a good amount.
lol, they get about two feet, can could exceed that length of course. Which is why I was thinking three feet deep myself, but wasn't sure if anyone thought the same.
 
I think a good bet would be give them a lot. It cant hurt and wouldn't be that hard to provide...
 
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