Sauromalus ater

Rocky desert terrarium, dry and very well ventilated (arid rock terrarium)

Minimum for a single adult; larger is preferable. Stack flat stones and hides forming narrow crevices where the animal can wedge itself. NON-venomous species. Legal note: wild populations are protected under US state laws (collection prohibited); the species is not listed on CITES (unlike Sauromalus varius, CITES I). Strongly favour captive-bred animals.

Dry desert conditions. Chronically excessive humidity encourages respiratory and skin infections. A slightly more humid micro-climate inside a sheltered hide does, however, aid shedding.

Avoid fine sand alone (risk of impaction if ingested with food). Place the rocks directly on the enclosure floor, never on the loose substrate, to prevent any collapse or crushing if the animal digs.

Strong UVB is essential (a full-desert species). High-output T5 tube at 10-12% or a suitable mercury-vapour lamp, with a UV index (UVI) of around 4-6 under the basking spot (Ferguson zone 3-4). Replace the tube every 6-12 months depending on the model.

A small dish of clean water renewed regularly; the animal hydrates mainly through its food. Avoid any stagnant humidity. Light, occasional misting can help with shedding and hydration.

Rocky deserts of southwestern North America: the southwestern United States (California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah) and northwestern Mexico (Sonora, Baja California).

Strict herbivore (strict vegetarian) — No animal prey. Edible flowers (dandelion, hibiscus, mallow), varied leaves and greens (endive, watercress, lamb's lettuce, turnip greens), a few fruits in very small amounts.

100% plant-based diet: animal protein causes gout and kidney damage and must be excluded. Vary the greens, limit oxalate-rich plants (spinach, chard) and favour a good calcium/phosphorus ratio. Regular calcium dusting (with D3 depending on UVB); watch for the risk of obesity.

Clutch 5–16 eggs/young. A winter cooling period (brumation) of several weeks generally stimulates breeding. Provide a laying area with loose, slightly humid substrate. Monitor gravid females to prevent egg retention (dystocia).

• Metabolic bone disease (MBD) from calcium/D3 deficiency or insufficient UVB
• Gout and kidney failure (excess animal protein or chronic dehydration)
• Obesity (excess fruit/overly rich foods, lack of exercise)
• Respiratory infections (temperatures too low or excessive humidity)
• Egg retention (dystocia) in females