Starred Agama

Starred Agama key facts

Care level

Intermediate

Lifespan

8-12 years

Size

Males up to 38cm, females 30-35cm total length

Diet

Omnivorous: mainly insects such as crickets, beetles and grasshoppers, plus small lizards, young mice and some plant material

Temperature & Humidity

A heat-loving species of sun-baked rocky country, it remains active where air and ground temperatures reach 60 C and moves about in the midday heat when most reptiles retreat into shade. Provide both a very hot basking spot and genuinely cool shade in the same enclosure so the animal can choose along the gradient.

Enclosure

It favours rocks, stone walls and the walls of ruins, and often head-bobs from an elevated lookout. Build height and lookout perches from stacked rock and cork, and provide several crevices it can dart into. If keeping a group, allow for the size of a lizard approaching 40 cm in total length.

Diet & Feeding

Mainly crickets, beetles and grasshoppers, but it also takes small lizards and young mice and eats some plant material, so the diet is omnivorous. In captivity use feeder insects as the staple with small amounts of greens and flowers, dusted with calcium and vitamin supplements.

Temperament

Very shy towards people, diving into rock crevices as soon as anyone approaches. Cornered and caught, it scratches and bites hard. It forms groups centred on a single dominant male, so housing males together invites fighting.

Notes

Not listed on any CITES appendix. It appears neither on the schedule of designated dangerous animals under the Order for Enforcement of the Act on Welfare and Management of Animals nor on Japan's list of invasive alien species. Because sources disagree on the genus, check when buying that Stellagama stellio, Laudakia stellio and Agama stellio all refer to the same animal. Several former subspecies have been elevated to full species, so animals from some localities may belong to a different species.

About Starred Agama

The Starred Agama (Hardun Agama): a sturdy, spine-scaled agamid and Europe's only native agama species. Males flush red or orange in the breeding season. Suited to intermediate-level keepers.

7 things to know before welcoming a Starred Agama

1. 1Spiky Scales, Sturdy Build

   Starred Agamas have strongly keeled, spiky scales running along their back and tail, giving them a rugged, armored look. This scale pattern is one of the species' defining features and becomes more pronounced as they mature.

2. 2Tail Is About Two-Thirds of Length

   The tail is ringed with rows of spines and makes up roughly two-thirds of the animal's total length. Because it's so long, take care not to trap or injure it when arranging decor or opening the enclosure door.

3. 3Europe's Only Agamid

   This is the only agamid species naturally found in Europe. Adapted to rocky, arid habitats in the wild, it appreciates a naturalistic enclosure with rock formations and climbing structures.

4. 4Intermediate Difficulty

   This species is considered suitable for intermediate keepers, and some prior experience with UV lighting and temperature management is reassuring. First-time reptile owners should research thoroughly before bringing one home.

5. 5Strong Basking Needs

   These lizards have a strong basking drive, so the enclosure needs proper UV lighting and a dedicated warm basking spot. Keeping an eye on basking behavior day to day is also a useful way to monitor overall health.

6. 6Males Color Up When Breeding

   During the breeding season, males often take on a reddish or orange flush, a seasonal color change that's part of the appeal of keeping this species. How pronounced this coloring becomes can vary by individual and by conditions.

7. 7Set Up the Habitat First

   Before bringing one home, set up the enclosure in advance — an appropriately sized cage, UV lighting, heating equipment, and a basking spot. Choose a cage with room to spare for the size the lizard will reach as an adult.

Frequently asked questions about Starred Agama

Q.Can beginners keep a Starred Agama?

A.This species is rated for intermediate keepers, so it suits those with some reptile-keeping experience. Understanding the basics of UV lighting and temperature management before bringing one home is recommended.

Q.How big do Starred Agamas grow?

A.Males reach up to 38 cm in total length, while females typically grow to around 30-35 cm. There's a noticeable size difference between the sexes.

Q.Are Starred Agamas tame? What's their temperament like?

A.They're quick-moving and naturally alert, and how readily they settle down varies by individual. Building trust takes time, through regular feeding and calm, consistent handling.

Q.Do I need UV lighting and other special equipment?

A.Yes — because they have a strong basking drive, UV lighting and a dedicated basking spot are essential. Set up the enclosure with a temperature gradient as well.

Q.Are there any legal regulations on keeping this species?

A.Starred Agamas (Hardun Agamas) are not subject to CITES.

Useful tools for Starred Agama care

Learn more about Starred Agama in the encyclopedia

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