Pet Critique

Hi there, pet lovers! 🦎

Are you looking for a sturdy, fascinating reptile that boasts both striking looks and a hardy nature? If so, the Giant Plated Lizard (Matobosaurus validus or Gerrhosaurus validus) might be just what you’re looking for! Native to southern Africa, this lizard is known for its robust armor-like scales, calm demeanor, and low-maintenance lifestyle, making it a great choice for reptile enthusiasts of all experience levels. Let’s dive into the details and see if the Giant Plated Lizard is the perfect addition to your family!

Ease of Handling: 4/5

Giant Plated Lizards are generally calm and docile, making them an excellent choice for beginners and experienced reptile keepers alike. Their temperament is mild, and they rarely show signs of aggression, but like all reptiles, they require a gentle and patient approach to handling.

These lizards can be shy initially and may retreat to their hideouts when startled, so it’s important to build trust over time. Start by letting them become familiar with your presence and offer treats by hand to create a positive association. Once they feel safe, Giant Plated Lizards often tolerate handling well, and some may even enjoy occasional interaction.

One thing to note is their size—they typically grow to around 18–27 inches (45–70 cm), including their tail. Their sturdy build means they’re easy to hold, but their length requires two hands for proper support. Always be mindful of their tail, as it can be used as a defense mechanism if they feel threatened.

Overall, with consistent care and patience, handling a Giant Plated Lizard can be a rewarding experience, especially as they grow more comfortable around you.

Care and Maintenance: 4/5

When it comes to care, Giant Plated Lizards are relatively low-maintenance compared to many other reptile species. They’re hardy creatures that adapt well to captivity, but providing them with the right environment is crucial for their health and happiness.

Enclosure:
A spacious enclosure is essential for these active lizards. A 4’ x 2’ x 2’ terrarium is the minimum recommended size for a single Giant Plated Lizard, though larger is always better. Include plenty of hides, rocks, and branches to mimic their natural habitat and provide hiding spots. They love to explore and will benefit from an enriched environment.

Substrate:
Choose a substrate that allows for digging and burrowing, such as a mix of sand and soil or coconut coir. This helps replicate their natural environment and encourages natural behaviors.

Lighting and Temperature:
As diurnal reptiles, Giant Plated Lizards require UVB lighting to maintain their health and prevent metabolic bone disease. Provide 10–12 hours of UVB light daily.
For temperature, aim for a basking spot around 95–100°F (35–38°C) and a cooler side of 75–80°F (24–27°C). Nighttime temperatures can drop slightly but should remain above 65°F (18°C). A ceramic heat emitter or under-tank heater can help maintain warmth.

Diet:
Giant Plated Lizards are omnivores, enjoying a varied diet of insects, vegetables, and occasional fruits. Offer gut-loaded crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms, and superworms as protein sources, along with leafy greens, squash, carrots, and berries for balance. Calcium and multivitamin supplements are essential for their long-term health.

Water and Humidity:
Provide a shallow water dish for drinking and soaking, and maintain a moderate humidity level of 40–60%. Mist the enclosure occasionally if needed, but avoid overly damp conditions.

Health and Durability: 3/5

One of the standout traits of the Giant Plated Lizard is its hardiness. These lizards are incredibly resilient when provided with proper care and are less prone to common reptile illnesses than some other species.

Their tough, armored scales serve not only as a physical defense but also as a testament to their durability. They have strong immune systems and adapt well to captivity, provided their environment and diet meet their needs.

However, like all reptiles, they can be susceptible to health issues such as respiratory infections or metabolic bone disease if their care requirements aren’t met. Ensuring proper UVB exposure, a balanced diet, and a clean habitat will go a long way in keeping your Giant Plated Lizard healthy and happy.

Another thing to keep in mind is regular observation. Monitor your lizard’s eating habits, activity levels, and overall appearance to catch any potential issues early.

Availability: 3/5

While Giant Plated Lizards aren’t as commonly available as Leopard Geckos or Bearded Dragons, they can still be found in the pet trade through specialty reptile stores and reputable breeders. They are not as widely bred in captivity, so wild-caught individuals are more common.

If you’re considering adding a Giant Plated Lizard to your collection, we recommend opting for a captive-bred specimen whenever possible. Captive-bred lizards are generally healthier, better adjusted to captivity, and less likely to carry parasites or diseases.

Availability may vary depending on your location, so some searching might be required to find the right lizard for you.

Initial Cost: 4/5

The cost of a Giant Plated Lizard can range from $150 to $300, depending on factors such as size, age, and whether the lizard is captive-bred. Wild-caught individuals are often less expensive but come with additional risks, such as stress and potential health issues.

In addition to the cost of the lizard itself, you’ll need to invest in a proper setup. Expect to spend around $300–$500 on a suitable enclosure, lighting, heating, and other essentials. While this may seem like a significant upfront expense, the longevity and low-maintenance nature of these lizards make them a worthwhile investment.

Final Thoughts: 3.6/5

Giant Plated Lizards are an excellent choice for reptile enthusiasts seeking a unique, hardy, and low-maintenance pet. Their calm temperament, striking appearance, and manageable care requirements make them a rewarding companion for keepers of all experience levels.

However, they do require a spacious enclosure, proper UVB lighting, and a varied diet, so it’s important to be prepared for these commitments. With the right care, these fascinating lizards can live for 10–15 years or more, providing years of enjoyment and companionship.

If you’re ready to add an armored adventurer to your reptile family, the Giant Plated Lizard might just be the perfect fit! Let us know in the comments if you’ve kept one of these amazing lizards or if you have any questions—we’d love to hear from you. 🦎