Reptoria

Smooth-snouted earless dragon (Tympanocryptis parviceps)

Agamas · Difficulty: Expert

Key facts and care guidance for Smooth-snouted earless dragon (Tympanocryptis parviceps) (origin: Australia (arid and heath-like habitats, WA). CAUTION: the name Tympanocryptis parviceps (Storr, 1964) is today assigned to Ctenophorus parviceps (the Gnaraloo heath dragon) – treating it as an earless dragon is taxonomically questionable). Adult size around approx. 9–13 cm total length (a small species). Life expectancy unknown, estimated at 3–5 years. The values below are carefully researched guidance.

Short answers

Smooth-snouted earless dragon: How big does the enclosure need to be?

80×40×40 cm (a small terrestrial species).

Smooth-snouted earless dragon: What temperature does it need?

Daytime 28–33 °C, basking spot 40–46 °C, at night 16–20 °C.

Smooth-snouted earless dragon: Does it need UVB lighting?

UVB: UVB needed (Ferguson zone 3–4, UV index 4–7).

Smooth-snouted earless dragon: How long do they live?

Life expectancy: unknown, estimated at 3–5 years.

Smooth-snouted earless dragon: Is it suitable for beginners?

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

Climate

Daytime temperature
28–33 °C
Night temperature
16–20 °C
Basking spot
40–46 °C
Humidity
30–50 %
UVB
UVB needed (Ferguson zone 3–4, UV index 4–7)

Enclosure

Minimum size
80×40×40 cm (a small terrestrial species)
Substrate
Sand-loam with stones, tussocks of grass and ground-level hides

Feeding

Food
Small insects: ants, termites, small crickets, roaches
Feeding interval
adults every 1–2 days, juveniles daily

Key facts

Adult size
approx. 9–13 cm total length (a small species)
Life expectancy
unknown, estimated at 3–5 years
Origin
Australia (arid and heath-like habitats, WA). CAUTION: the name Tympanocryptis parviceps (Storr, 1964) is today assigned to Ctenophorus parviceps (the Gnaraloo heath dragon) – treating it as an earless dragon is taxonomically questionable
Protection status
Protected: CITES Appendix III, EU Annex C - proof of origin required at purchase and resale. Australian native wildlife, export banned under the EPBC Act (no legal EU trade).
Brumation
A cooler winter or dry rest of a few weeks at about 14–16 °C is plausible
Cohabitation
Keep them singly. Territorial; NEVER keep males together. Put them together only temporarily for breeding, with a visual screen.

Notes

UNCERTAIN: the taxon name has changed (today Ctenophorus parviceps, the Gnaraloo heath dragon, of the WA coastal heath and dunes), and it is no longer listed under Tympanocryptis. No species-specific husbandry literature; the figures are derived generically from small arid Australian agamas. Check the taxonomy and name before use.

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Related species

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What you need to start

To keep Smooth-snouted earless dragon (Tympanocryptis parviceps) you typically need: a suitable enclosure (80×40×40 cm (a small terrestrial species)), substrate (Sand-loam with stones, tussocks of grass and ground-level hides), 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/Ctenophorus_parviceps, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tympanocryptis

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).