Reptoria

Ring-tailed dragon (Ctenophorus caudicinctus)

Ring-tailed dragon (Ctenophorus caudicinctus), typical appearance of the species

Agamas · Difficulty: Intermediate

Key facts and care guidance for Ring-tailed dragon (Ctenophorus caudicinctus) (origin: North-western Australia). Adult size around 20–28 cm. Life expectancy 6–12 years. The values below are carefully researched guidance.

Short answers

Ring-tailed dragon: How big does the enclosure need to be?

120×60×70 cm for a group.

Ring-tailed dragon: What temperature does it need?

Daytime 29–35 °C, basking spot Basking spot 45–52 °C, at night 18–22 °C.

Ring-tailed dragon: Does it need UVB lighting?

UVB: Essential (UVB 12.0).

Ring-tailed dragon: How long do they live?

Life expectancy: 6–12 years.

Ring-tailed dragon: Is it suitable for beginners?

Rather not – it is considered an intermediate species (difficulty: Intermediate).

Climate

Daytime temperature
29–35 °C
Night temperature
18–22 °C
Basking spot
Basking spot 45–52 °C
Humidity
25–40 %
UVB
Essential (UVB 12.0)

Enclosure

Minimum size
120×60×70 cm for a group
Substrate
A sand-loam mix with solid rock structures

Feeding

Food
Crickets, locusts, roaches and house crickets, dusted regularly with calcium and vitamins
Feeding interval
adults 3×/week

Key facts

Adult size
20–28 cm
Life expectancy
6–12 years
Origin
North-western Australia
Protection status
Not listed under CITES
Brumation
A cooler rest of 6–8 weeks at 14–18 °C
Cohabitation
Harem (1,2); Männchen niemals zusammen. Der Grund: mehrere Männchen kämpfen um Revier und Wärmeplatz, bis eines verletzt ist oder dauerhaft in der Ecke sitzt. Weibchen vertragen sich meist, brauchen aber je eigene Wärme- und Versteckplätze; bei Größenunterschieden getrennt füttern.

Notes

A rock dweller that climbs vertical rock.

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Related species

All species in the care wiki →

What you need to start

To keep Ring-tailed dragon (Ctenophorus caudicinctus) you typically need: a suitable enclosure (120×60×70 cm for a group), substrate (A sand-loam mix with solid 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://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ctenophorus, https://reptile-database.reptarium.cz/species?genus=Ctenophorus&species=caudicinctus

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).