Boettger, 1913

Description

Uroplatus sikorae is one of the more common species of Uroplatus in the hobby and with good reason. They are adorned with great camouflage, many matching the lichen and moss covered tree trunks on which they rest. They’re a medium sized species achieving sizes of 5-7 inches as adults (SVL). A dermal flap lines the body and legs enabling to hide their outline when fully utilized. Uroplatus sikorae is easily distinguished from Uroplatus sameiti by examining the color of the buccal membrane near the back of the animals mouth.

 

Distribution and Habitat

Uroplatus sikorae inhabit higher elevation forests (>1000m asl) in the Eastern and Northern areas of Madagascar. U.sameiti shares a parapatric distribution, with a narrow region of sympatry occurring between these species at mid-elevation.

 

Captive Care

Uroplatus sikorae are fairly common Uroplatus in the hobby. Most are imported and require a good deal of acclimation before they will thrive (or breed) in captivity. As always, acquiring a CB animals from a reputable breeder is highly preferred. WC animals should go to experienced keepers/breeders who require adding genetic diversity to their breeding groups.

Pairs or trios can be housed in cages no smaller than 18x18x24″, but they do appreciate more space if it can be provided. A naturalistic environment is preferred, with live plants and substrate to maintain suitable humidity levels. Natural branches 1-2″ in diameter should be vertically arranged to mimic the trees and liana’s found in their natural habitat. Hydration and humidity can be provided by misting the enclosure just after night fall but it also doesn’t hurt to provide a water dish. Using water dishes is a learned behavior and doesn’t happen immediately. If you do decide to provide a water dish, it is very important to provide fresh water daily.

They can be sensitive to dirty enclosures, thus making daily spot cleaning a very important part of daily husbandry routines. Water dishes should be cleaned daily and any feces from branches should be removed as soon as it is found.

It’s becoming more and more apparent that Uroplatus benefit from UVB and Uroplatus sikroae are no exception. UVB 5.0 should be provided to all enclosures and changed when required.

As U. sikorae are from a high elevation they respond better to cool day time temperatures with a bit of a nighttime drop.  Daytime temperatures around 74-76 degrees F (23-24 celsius) are ideal.  U. sikorae do not do well in temperatures over 83 degrees F (28 celsius) for any sustained amount of time.  Persistent high temperatures will kill U. sikorae in captivity.

Like all Uroplatus, Uroplatus sikorae are insectivorous and will consume a variety of appropriately sized insect feeders. Crickets, locusts, roaches, termites and isopods will usually be accepted by most Uroplatus. Uroplatus sikorae are sensitive to over supplementation and obesity. We’re not sure if one is linked to the other as further research is required to fully understand their needs. However, calcium supplementation should be provided to all breeding females, during and after a breeding season. If you notice fatty areas beginning to build behind the front legs or along the dermal flap, decrease supplementation (don’t stop all together) until the swollen areas subside.