Blue spiny lizard (Sceloporus cyanogenys)
Iguanas · Difficulty: Intermediate
Key facts and care guidance for Blue spiny lizard (Sceloporus cyanogenys) (origin: Texas, north-eastern Mexico – rocky areas). Adult size around 20–30 cm. Life expectancy 6–10 years. The values below are carefully researched guidance.
Short answers
Blue spiny lizard: How big does the enclosure need to be?
120×60×70 cm.
Blue spiny lizard: What temperature does it need?
Daytime 27–32 °C, basking spot 42–45 °C, at night 17–21 °C.
Blue spiny lizard: Does it need UVB lighting?
UVB: Essential (UVB 10.0).
Blue spiny lizard: How long do they live?
Life expectancy: 6–10 years.
Blue spiny lizard: Is it suitable for beginners?
Rather not – it is considered an intermediate species (difficulty: Intermediate).
Climate
- Daytime temperature
- 27–32 °C
- Night temperature
- 17–21 °C
- Basking spot
- 42–45 °C
- Humidity
- 40–55 %
- UVB
- Essential (UVB 10.0)
Enclosure
- Minimum size
- 120×60×70 cm
- Substrate
- Sand-loam with stable rock structures
Feeding
- Food
- Insects
- Feeding interval
- adults 4×/week
Key facts
- Adult size
- 20–30 cm
- Life expectancy
- 6–10 years
- Origin
- Texas, north-eastern Mexico – rocky areas
- Protection status
- Not listed under CITES
- Brumation
- A cooler rest of 8 weeks
- Cohabitation
- Keeping them singly is the least stressful option. One male with one or two females (1,2) is also possible if every animal gets its own basking spot and hide, and animals of different sizes are fed separately. Two males do not get on: they fight over territory and the basking spot until one is injured or sits permanently in a corner.
Notes
A rock dweller with very high warmth and UVB requirements. The male has a strong blue throat and flanks.
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Related species
- Bunch-grass lizard (Sceloporus mucronatus) – Beginner with some knowledge
- Clark's spiny lizard (Sceloporus clarkii) – Beginner
- Eastern spiny lizard (Sceloporus spinosus) – Beginner with some knowledge
- Crevice spiny lizard (Sceloporus poinsettii) – Beginner
- Fire-headed spiny lizard (Sceloporus pyrocephalus) – Beginner with some knowledge
- Florida scrub lizard (Sceloporus woodi) – Beginner with some knowledge
- Blue spiny lizard (Sceloporus serrifer) – Intermediate
- Striped plateau lizard (Sceloporus virgatus) – Beginner with some knowledge
What you need to start
To keep Blue spiny lizard (Sceloporus cyanogenys) you typically need: a suitable enclosure (120×60×70 cm), substrate (Sand-loam with stable rock structures), a heat source with a thermostat, UVB lighting, thermometer and hygrometer, a water dish and hides. You will find equipment in the Reptoria marketplace.
The complete, interactive care database is in the Reptoria app.
Last updated: 9 October 2026 · Editor: Reptoria editorial team · Sources include: https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species?genus=Sceloporus&species=cyanogenys, https://reptilesmagazine.com/blue-spiny-lizard-care-sheet/
All values are non-binding guidance and do not replace expert advice. Research thoroughly from several sources before acquiring and keeping an animal, and observe the applicable law (species and animal protection in particular).