Scientific Name: Timon lepidus
Common Names: Ocellated Lizard, Jewelled Lizard

Enclosure

1. Size: European Eyed Lizards are active and require a large enclosure. A minimum of a 4 foot by 2 foot by 2 foot enclosure is recommended for a single adult, with larger sizes being preferable.
2. Substrate: Use a mix of sand and soil (70% sand, 30% soil) to allow for burrowing. Alternatively, coco fiber or bioactive setups can also be used. Avoid loose substrates for juveniles to prevent accidental ingestion.
3. Hides:
   • Provide multiple hides in different temperature zones (warm and cool).
   • Include naturalistic hides like cork bark, logs, or rock caves.
4. Heating: Maintain a temperature gradient with a basking spot of 35-38°C and a cooler side around 24-27°C. Use a ceramic heat emitter or basking bulb to create the basking spot.
5. Lighting: UVB lighting is essential for their health. Use a 10-12% UVB bulb that covers a significant portion of the enclosure. Provide a light cycle of 12 hours on, 12 hours off.
6. Humidity: Maintain a humidity level of around 40-60%. Mist lightly if necessary, but ensure the enclosure has good ventilation to prevent mold.

Diet

1. Insects: European Eyed Lizards are omnivores, and their diet should consist mainly of gut-loaded insects like crickets, locusts, mealworms, and roaches.
2. Plant Matter: Offer small amounts of leafy greens, fruits, and vegetables such as dandelion greens, collard greens, or grated carrot.
3. Supplements: Dust food with calcium powder at every feeding and with a multivitamin supplement once a week.
4. Feeding Frequency: Adults can be fed every other day, while juveniles should be fed daily.

Water

1. Provide a shallow water dish with fresh, clean water at all times.
2. Mist the enclosure lightly once or twice a week to offer hydration options, but avoid excess moisture.

Behavior and Handling

1. European Eyed Lizards are territorial and may not tolerate housing with others, especially males. Keep them solitary unless carefully monitored.
2. Handle with care. These lizards are fast and can be defensive if threatened. It’s important to give them time to adjust to your presence before handling regularly.
3. Use slow movements when handling and support their body fully to avoid stressing them.

Enrichment

1. Climbing Structures: Provide branches, rocks, and logs for climbing, as these lizards are semi-arboreal.
2. Digging and Burrowing: Include enough substrate for digging, as these lizards enjoy burrowing.

Health

1. Signs of Illness: Watch for signs of lethargy, loss of appetite, abnormal stool, or difficulty shedding.
2. Shedding: Provide rough surfaces like rocks or logs to help with shedding. Keep an eye on retained shed around the toes and tail.
3. Consult a Vet: If you notice any signs of illness, consult a reptile veterinarian immediately.

Lifespan

European Eyed Lizards can live 10-20 years in captivity if properly cared for, making them a long-term commitment.

Morphs

While not as varied as some other species, European Eyed Lizards do come in a range of natural color variations, from bright green to more muted brownish tones. Their characteristic blue "eye spots" or ocelli, especially prominent on males, give them their name and are a distinguishing feature.