Which lizard is right for a beginner?
The best beginner lizards at a glance
Good beginner lizards
- Bearded dragon: good-natured, diurnal and rewarding to watch – needs UVB.
- Leopard gecko: small (20–25 cm), friendly and easy to care for.
- Crested gecko: an easy-going climber for a tall vivarium.
More demanding
Chameleons need careful attention to temperature, humidity and diet, while tegus and large monitors need a great deal of space and experience. You will find the details in our individual care articles.
Almost all diurnal lizards need UVB lighting. Plan the right equipment in from the start.