Species Detail
Tuatara
Tuataras

Tuatara

Sphenodon punctatus

Habitat

Coastal scrub and forest on offshore islands

Range

New Zealand

Adult Size

12-30 in (30-75 cm)

Diet

Insects, spiders, small lizards, birds' eggs

Find on MorphMarket
Conservation status:Least Concern

About this species

The sole surviving member of the order Rhynchocephalia. Often called a 'living fossil.' Has a third eye (parietal eye) on top of its head.

Enrichment & behavioral stimulation

Tuatara is a cool-climate, ground-dwelling reptile — enrichment focuses on secure retreats, burrowable substrate, and low-light foraging.

  • Provide multiple cool, secure hides to reduce stress.
  • Use a deep, safe, burrowable substrate for natural retreats.
  • Scatter-feed insects to encourage searching rather than stationary feeding.
  • Keep temperatures cool and avoid bright heat — tuataras are active at low temperatures.
  • Add rocky crevices and cork that mimic natural retreats.
  • Drag prey along decor to create scent trails for tracking.

Housing & Social Behavior

Solitary

Very long-lived, slow-moving animals that are best kept individually in captive settings.

Housing guidance is general and based on species-typical behavior; always verify against current husbandry references and observe individual temperament.