Identity
Family / Order
Agamidae / Squamata
Adult size
30–40 cm incl. tail
Lifespan (captivity)
4–7 yrs
Activity
Diurnal; arboreal
Temperament
Fast, skittish — display species
Price (THB)
Low (very common locally)
Enclosure and conditions
Basking
32–35 °C (90–95 °F)
Ambient
26–30 °C
Night
20–23 °C
Humidity
50–70%
UVB (required)
Diurnal — needs UVB
Min. size
45 × 45 × 60 cm vertical, planted
Furnishings
Branches, vines, foliage
Water
Misting + dish
Diet
Diet type
Insectivore (occasional greens)
Staple insects
Crickets, roaches, mealworms
Calcium
Dust + UVB; multivit weekly
Frequency
Juv daily; adults every other day
Behaviour and handling
Handling
Minimal — skittish, may drop tail
Cohabitation
Solo — males territorial
Display
Breeding males flush red head/shoulders
Defense
Flee, gape, bite
Reproduction
Reproduction
Oviparous
Clutch
10–20 eggs
Incubation
~6–7 weeks
Common health problems
Metabolic bone disease
Signspoor UVB/Ca
PreventUVB + calcium
Stress
Signsfrom over-handling / small enclosure
Preventhands-off, plant heavily
Parasites
Signscommon in wild-caught
Preventchoose captive-bred; fecal test
When to see a vet
This is not veterinary advice. If red flags appear (open-mouth breathing, months of weight loss, 'stargazing', persistent regurgitation) consult a qualified exotic (herp) veterinarian. Quarantine new arrivals 30–90 days.
Good to know
- The 'bloodsucker' name comes from the male's bright red head in breeding season — it does not suck blood.
- One of the most common lizards across Thailand — often seen in gardens.
Common questions
Does it suck blood?
No — the red head is just breeding colour.
Handleable?
Better as a display species — it's fast and shy.
What it needs
- Vertical planted terrarium 45×45×60
- UVB + basking
- Thermostat
- Branches & foliage
- Calcium + multivit
- Feeder insects + mister