Sheltopusik, European Glass Lizard, Giant Russian Legless Lizard
(Ophisaurus apodus)

The European glass lizard is the largest of the legless lizards measuring three to four feet in length and weighing 11 to 21 ounces. European glass lizards can be found in the Balkan Peninsula, Turkey, Syria and from Caucasus to central Asia. The most prominent feature of the European legless lizard is its lack of legs. To the many people it looks like a snake. Unlike snakes, European glass lizards do have eyelids, external ears, a large tail and uniform scale size like most other lizards. European glass lizards are brown to olive green in color with a lateral fold that runs the length of the body, but not the tail. The tail is often up to half the length of the lizard. The tail can demonstrate autonomy (breaking) which gives it the name glass lizard. Once lost, the tail rarely regenerates. Fortunately the European glass lizard does not readily drop its tail. The European glass lizard is the only European member of this genus and is the only member that also demonstrates vestigial limbs in the form of spurs near its vent.

Difficulty

NOVICE: Because of their moderate size and no need for specialized lighting, the European glass lizard can make a good beginner pet.

Requirements

An enclosure, such as:

• Glass or acrylic aquarium (20 gallons or larger, depending on the size and number of European glass lizards kept) with a secure lid with clamps

Substrate, such as:

• Sand/Soil mix

A heating element, such as:

• Incandescent heat bulb
• Ceramic infrared heat emitters

Enclosure

Adult European glass lizards will need a 20-gallon aquarium or larger sized cage if more than one glass lizard is kept in the enclosure. Branches and rocks are needed for climbing and to provide basking areas. A secured screen top is needed for ventilation.

Substrate

The substrate or bedding that you use is one of the most important parts of your European glass lizard's home, since your glass lizard will be spending much of its time on it. A mixture of silicate free play sand and soild can be used for your European glass lizard since it will most accurately match their natural environment. Be sure to clean the substrate often to prevent mold and bacteria growth.

Heating and Light

These legless lizards should have daytime temperatures of 70°F to 75°F with a 80°F to 85°F basking area under a spotlight. Nightime temperatures should be 60°F to 70°F. European glass lizards do not require UV light for proper metabolic and bone development. A spotlight with an appropriate wattage incandescnet bulb, ceramic emitter, or under the tank heater can be used to provide heat. Many hobbyists will install thermometers or thermostats in the enclsosure to be able to accurately maintain these temperatures. We do not recommend the use of any kind of heat rocks as they can often lead to burns on your European glass lizard.

Diet

European glass lizards are carniivores and will eat a variety of insects including crickets, mealworms, super worms, and wax worms. Pinkie or fuzzie mice can also be offered to the European glass lizard. Fresh water should always be provided.