Can You Have a Blue Tongue Lizard as a Pet?

Blue tongue lizards are fascinating creatures with unique characteristics that make them quite popular among reptile enthusiasts. They are often found in various parts of Australia, and their vibrant blue tongues and friendly

personalities make them a sought-after pet for those interested in reptiles. However, before deciding to bring one into your home, it’s important to understand their care needs, habitat, and legal considerations.

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Blue-Tongue Lizards in Your Backyard: Your Questions Answered

If you’ve spotted a blue-tongue lizard in your backyard, you might be curious about how to handle the situation or whether you should relocate it. Below are answers to some.

Requently asked questions that can help you understand what to do if you encounter one of these fascinating reptiles.

There’s a Blue-Tongue Living in My Backyard

If you find a blue-tongue lizard in your backyard and wish to relocate it, the first step is to consider the animal’s welfare. Blue-tongue lizards are territorial and may struggle to adjust to a new environment.

It’s important to ensure that the new location is suitable, with enough food, water, and shelter. Before relocating, check local laws, as some regions require permits for handling wildlife. If you are unsure, contacting a local wildlife rescue organization for advice is always a good idea.

Is It Okay to Pick Up a Blue-Tongue Lizard to Move It?

It’s generally safe to pick up a blue-tongue lizard, but it should be done carefully. Make sure you gently grasp the lizard by the base of its tail or around the body to avoid causing it stress or injury.

Always handle the lizard with care and avoid grabbing it by its head or limbs, as this can cause harm. If the lizard is frightened or stressed, it may bite, but they are not venomous.

I’ve Brought a Lizard From My Backyard Inside

While bringing a blue-tongue lizard indoors to keep it safe temporarily is fine, it’s important to consider the lizard’s long-term well-being. Lizards require specific environmental conditions to thrive, including the right temperature, humidity, and access to food.

A box can be a temporary solution, but it is not ideal for long-term care. You should create a more suitable habitat, such as an enclosure with appropriate lighting, heating, and space for the lizard to move around.

I’ve Got a Blue-Tongue Living in My Backyard, But I’m Worried That My Cat

If you have pets like cats or dogs, it’s important to keep a close eye on them when there is a blue-tongue lizard in the backyard. Cats, in particular, may be tempted to chase or harm the lizard.

To keep the lizard safe, consider setting up a safe, enclosed area for it in your yard, such as a fenced-off spot or a large outdoor cage. Alternatively, supervise your pets when they are outside to ensure that they do not harm the lizard.

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Is It Okay to Feed the Blue-Tongues Living in My Backyard? What About Providing Water?

Feeding blue-tongue lizards living in your backyard is generally not necessary, as they can find food on their own. However, if you want to help them, you can provide fresh water in a shallow dish.

Blue-tongue lizards are omnivores, and their diet typically includes fruits, vegetables, insects, and small invertebrates. Just ensure that any food you offer is appropriate for their diet, avoiding processed foods, and anything toxic to them.

There’s a Blue-Tongue in My Backyard That Looks Sick/Injured. How Can I Help It?

If you encounter a sick or injured blue-tongue lizard, it’s important to act quickly. A first step is to contact a local wildlife rescue or rehabilitation center. They can guide you on how to safely capture and transport the lizard for treatment.

Common injuries include cuts, broken limbs, or being struck by vehicles. A veterinarian specializing in reptiles may also be able to treat it. It’s essential not to try and treat it yourself unless you are trained to do so.

Do Blue-Tongues Hibernate in Winter?

Yes, blue-tongue lizards do hibernate, or go into a state of brumation, during the colder months. This is a natural survival mechanism that helps them conserve energy. In regions where winters are cold, blue-tongue

lizards will usually enter brumation for several months, reducing their activity level and feeding. If you have a pet blue-tongue lizard, ensure its enclosure provides the right conditions for brumation, such as cooler temperatures and limited food.

Do Blue-Tongue Lizards Attract Snakes?

Blue-tongue lizards are not known to attract snakes. However, their presence in your yard could indicate a healthy environment that supports other wildlife, including snakes. Snakes may be attracted to areas with abundant food sources like rodents or other reptiles,

Including blue-tongues. If you’re concerned about snakes, take steps to minimize hiding spots and remove potential food sources in your yard.

I Use Snail Pellets and Rodent Baits in My Backyard.

Yes, snail pellets and rodent baits can be harmful to blue-tongue lizards if ingested. These products often contain toxic chemicals that can be deadly to reptiles.

If you want to keep your backyard safe for blue-tongues, avoid using toxic chemicals or use them in a way that the lizards cannot access. Consider using natural or non-toxic alternatives to manage pests.

I Use Weed Killers in My Backyard. Will These Cause Harm to Blue-Tongue Lizards?

Weed killers can also pose a threat to blue-tongue lizards. Many chemical herbicides contain toxic substances that can harm reptiles if ingested or absorbed through the skin. If you must use weed killers,

Be sure to apply them carefully and avoid areas where the lizards are likely to frequent. Alternatively, consider using natural weed control methods to protect both your plants and the local wildlife.

I’ve Seen Someone Selling Blue-Tongues on Facebook. Is This Illegal?

Selling blue-tongue lizards can be illegal, depending on local laws and regulations. In many areas, it’s illegal to capture and sell native wildlife without proper permits. Always check the legality of buying or selling blue-tongue

lizards in your area before engaging in any transactions. Supporting ethical breeders or adopting from wildlife rescues is a better option for ensuring the well-being of the animals.

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Can You Catch Anything Off Blue-Tongue Lizards If You Kiss Them?

No, kissing a blue-tongue lizard will not transmit any diseases to humans. Blue-tongue lizards are not carriers of zoonotic diseases, meaning they don’t typically pass infections onto humans.

However, it’s always a good idea to wash your hands thoroughly after handling any reptile to avoid any potential bacteria that might be present on their skin.

Conclusion: Should You Keep a Blue-Tongue Lizard as a Pet?

Blue-tongue lizards can make fascinating and relatively easy-to-care-for pets, especially for reptile enthusiasts. However, it’s important to ensure that you’re prepared to meet their care needs, including the proper enclosure, diet, and temperature requirements.

If you’re considering adopting one, always make sure to check the legality of keeping one as a pet in your area. Additionally, if you encounter a blue-tongue in the wild, it’s best to leave it in its natural habitat, unless it is injured or in danger.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do blue-tongue lizards eat?

Blue-tongue lizards are omnivores and eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, and insects. A healthy diet includes leafy greens, berries, and small invertebrates.

Are blue-tongue lizards dangerous?

No, blue-tongue lizards are not dangerous. They are generally calm and non-aggressive, though they may bite if threatened.

Can I keep a blue-tongue lizard in a small tank?

No, blue-tongue lizards need plenty of space to roam. A large enclosure with proper heating, lighting, and hiding places is essential for their well-being.

Conclusion

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