Emerald Swift Care
Emerald Swift
(Sceloporus malachiticus)
Emerald swifts are brilliantly colored lizards native to the forests and mountainous regions of Central America, particularly Costa Rica, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Males display vibrant emerald green and turquoise scales, while females are generally more muted in coloration. Adults typically reach 6–8 inches in length. They are active, diurnal lizards that enjoy climbing and basking, making them excellent display animals for keepers who appreciate their striking appearance.
Lifespan:
6-10 years in captivity with proper care.
Sexing:
Males are more vividly colored, with bright greens and blues, and tend to be slightly larger than females. Females remain more brown or olive-toned.
Enclosure:
Provide vertical climbing branches, rocks, cork bark, and live or artificial plants to replicate their natural forest environment.
Offer both elevated basking perches and shaded areas for retreat.
Minimum Size: A 20-gallon tall tank (or 18” x 18” x 24”) for a pair, though larger enclosures are always preferred.
Substrate:
A mix of soil, coconut fiber, and sand works well to maintain moderate humidity while allowing digging. Bioactive setups are also suitable.
Lighting & Temperature:
Basking Spot: 90-95°F
Ambient Range: 75–85°F
Nighttime Drop: 65-70°F
UVB: Use a 5.0–7% UVB bulb to provide essential UVB for calcium metabolism and overall health.
Humidity:
Maintain humidity levels of 50-70% with daily misting, automated misters, or foggers. Live plants help stabilize humidity and improve enclosure aesthetics. They appreciate moisture but also require good ventilation to prevent stagnant air.
Food:
Emerald swifts are insectivores. Offer a varied diet of gut-loaded crickets, roaches, silkworms, and mealworms, with occasional waxworms or other treats. Dust feeders with calcium and vitamins on a regular schedule.
Water:
Provide fresh water daily in a shallow dish, though most Emerald Swifts prefer to drink droplets from leaves.
Supplementation:
Calcium with D3: Dust food 2-3 times weekly.
Calcium without D3: Use on alternating days if adequate UVB lighting is provided.
Multivitamins: Offer once weekly to support overall health
With their stunning emerald-green coloration, diurnal activity, and energetic personalities, emerald swifts bring a splash of color and liveliness to a reptile collection. They thrive in naturalistic enclosures and are best enjoyed as active, visually striking display lizards.