Reptoria

Mjöberg's angle-headed lizard (Gonocephalus mjobergi)

Agamas · Difficulty: Expert

Key facts and care guidance for Mjöberg's angle-headed lizard (Gonocephalus mjobergi) (origin: Endemic to Borneo (uplands and montane forest)). Adult size around approx. 25–30 cm including the tail (an estimate, by comparison within the genus). Life expectancy uncertain in captivity, estimated at 5–8 years. The values below are carefully researched guidance.

Short answers

Mjöberg's angle-headed lizard: How big does the enclosure need to be?

80×60×120 cm (arboreal, densely planted and tall).

Mjöberg's angle-headed lizard: What temperature does it need?

Daytime 22–27 °C, basking spot — (thermoconformer, no strong basking spot; spot-sized max. ~28–30 °C), at night 18–20 °C.

Mjöberg's angle-headed lizard: Does it need UVB lighting?

UVB: UVB recommended (Ferguson zone 1–2, UV index 1–3; weak forest light).

Mjöberg's angle-headed lizard: How long do they live?

Life expectancy: uncertain in captivity, estimated at 5–8 years.

Mjöberg's angle-headed lizard: Is it suitable for beginners?

No – better suited to experienced keepers (difficulty: Expert).

Climate

Daytime temperature
22–27 °C
Night temperature
18–20 °C
Basking spot
— (thermoconformer, no strong basking spot; spot-sized max. ~28–30 °C)
Humidity
70–90 %
UVB
UVB recommended (Ferguson zone 1–2, UV index 1–3; weak forest light)

Enclosure

Minimum size
80×60×120 cm (arboreal, densely planted and tall)
Substrate
Forest floor or coco humus with leaf litter and moss, moisture-retaining

Feeding

Food
Insects (crickets, house crickets, roaches, small locusts)
Feeding interval
adults 2–3×/week, juveniles daily

Key facts

Adult size
approx. 25–30 cm including the tail (an estimate, by comparison within the genus)
Life expectancy
uncertain in captivity, estimated at 5–8 years
Origin
Endemic to Borneo (uplands and montane forest)
Protection status
No CITES listing; proof of origin recommended. Taxonomically uncertain (Denzer & Manthey question its placement in Gonocephalus, possibly its own genus).
Brumation
No real winter rest; a slight seasonal or night-time drop is possible as a climate simulation
Cohabitation
Keep them singly. A pair (1.1) only in a very large, structured enclosure with visual barriers; never keep males together (territorial)

Notes

Extremely rare in captivity, with barely any solid keeper data – the figures are derived from the genus Gonocephalus and its montane origin (hence low confidence). Angle-headed dragons usually drink only moving water (mist or droplets); a bathing or watering point is needed. Wild-caught animals are prone to stress.

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Related species

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What you need to start

To keep Mjöberg's angle-headed lizard (Gonocephalus mjobergi) you typically need: a suitable enclosure (80×60×120 cm (arboreal, densely planted and tall)), substrate (Forest floor or coco humus with leaf litter and moss, moisture-retaining), 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: 25 September 2026 · Editor: Reptoria editorial team · Sources include: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gonocephalus_liogaster, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gonocephalus_mjobergi

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).