REPTILE FOCUS
Red-headed rock agama
This species is widely-distributed across sub-Saharan Africa, being found in arid areas, often where there are rocky outcrops. Red-headed rock agamas (Agama agama) live in groups of up to 20 individuals, comprised of a dominant male along with females and juveniles. They can grow up to 38cm (15in) in length. It is only the dominant males which display this vibrant colouration though, with their appearance being influenced by their mood and the temperature of their surroundings. Females in contrast are brown. These agamas are very agile, and can scamper easily over rocks, where they are often to be seen basking in the wild. Their active nature means that they require spacious vivarium surroundings, with a basking spot of 32°C (90°F) in their quarters and a suitable UV light source. They are mainly insectivorous in their feeding habits, but should also be given greenstuff on a regular basis, as well as occasional offerings of fruit such as berries.