Uromastyx ocellata
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Classification
U. ocellata is better known as ocellated uromastyx, Eyed Dabb lizard, Sudanese uromastyx (although there is some confusion regarding this) and sudanese ocellated uromastyx.
Description
Although one of the smaller species of uromastyx, U. ocellata are still large, growing to 25-30cm (10-12"). They are among the most colourful species of uromastyx to own.
Also unlike most uromastyx species, mature females tend to be as large or larger than the males. There are actually two forms of Ocellated uromastyx. The nominate form, the Egyptian Ocellated uromastyx, is about 25-33% larger overall and both sexes have a ground color of sandy brown. The two forms are not officially recognised as true subspecies, as they intergrade over a large area with no key characteristics to reliably distinguish between the two. However, in herpetoculture, the two most distantly found forms are considered distinctly different. Some breeders treat them as if they were separate species while others interbreed them in hopes of combining the best traits of both.
Colouration
Both types are a bluish/grey colour with an oak-leaf patterned patch of orange covering the back, upon which are randomly spaced white spots, often outlined in black (ocellations, from which the species gets its name). Males of both types get blue throats, however the blue is generally much more extensive in the Sudanese form, which has a ground color of dull to medium green in females to blue green with an almost metal flake-like quality in males.
Temperament
Although they vary tremendously in temperament, ocellated uromastyx tend to be quite easy to handle. The Sudanese ocellated are a very active species, tending to be somewhat shy, often taking several months to remain out in the open when approached by their owner. They are very reminiscent of Rainbow uromastyx in their relation ship to humans (like a "semi-tame" State Park chipmunk). They are completely non-aggressive towards people, essentially never offering to bite or tail slap. If paired immediately upon acquisition, they generally are one of the easier species to keep as compatible pairs. They are one of our more "fun" species to work with, but are not suitable for homes where you you wish to handle your pet on a regular basis. While they tame nicely, they quickly become shy if regularly "caught" for handling. The Egyptian Ocellated is essentially a much less "ornate" Ornate uromastyx in temperament (they were actually listed as the same species for awhile). They are generally very calm, laid back uro's. They take handling well and are better suited for those who like to interact with their uro's outside their cage on a regular basis. The few breeders who work with them love the temperament, which to a large degree helps makes up for the lack of flashy colors. Both types are exceptionally non-aggressive to humans.
As adults, both forms are very hardy and suitable for beginners. However the hatchlings are somewhat delicate and should only be purchased by experienced urophiles until around 5+" or more in size.
Related species
U. ocellata are close relatives of the ornate uromastyx (U. ornata), but are much reduced in size, generally maxing out below 13cm (11"), 200 grams.
Geographical disperion
U. ocellata come from hot arid area in southern Egypt and Sudan.
