Sudanese, or more correctly, Sudanese Ocellated Uromastyx, are one of the less common Uromastyx species generally available in North America.  These and Ornates were the first two Uromastyx species we started working with at Deer Fern Farms and we probably hold the North American record for the first true captive production of fertile eggs (just our luck however that that clutch died in the shell prior to hatching and someone else got live hatchlings a year or two later while we had our pairs split).   They were imported only briefly into North America and thus remain relatively uncommon.  Their average price reflects this, with hatchlings commonly going for between $195 and $300.  Adults are rarely available, but go for similar to slightly higher amounts.  Technically Sudan is still willing to export them, however the U.S. has Sudan listed as a terrorist nation and will not permit any importations from them to clear customs.  One or two groups have made it into North America in recent years by being shipped to Canada with some then re-exported into the U.S.   However these groups have consistently arrived in terrible condition with very few specimens being successfully acclimated.

They are close relatives of the Ornate Uromastyx, but are much reduced in size, generally maxing out below 11", 200 grams.   Unlike most Uromastyx species, mature females tend to be as large or  larger than the males.  There are actually two forms of Ocellated Uromastyx.  This, the Sudanese form, comes from Sudan and basically has a ground color of dull to medium green in females to blue green with an almost metal flake-like quality in males.   The nominate form, the Egyptian Ocellated Uromastyx, native to Egypt,  is about 1/4 to 1/3 larger overall and both sexes have a ground color of sandy brown.  The two forms are not officially recognized 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.   Both types have an oak-leaf-pattern patch of orange covering the back.  Upon this patch are randomly spaced white spots, often outlined in black.    Males of both types get blue throats, however the blue is generally much more extensive in the Sudanese form.   They also vary tremendously in temperament.   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 and we have never had one attempt to bite. 

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.  We’ve posted photos of a few individuals we’ve recently sold so you can get an idea of what we generally have available.  Please also view our   Photo Gallery of Deer Fern Farms In-House Breeders  page to see the parents of our In-house captive produced hatchlings.  Our availability is sporadic and somewhat seasonal, so please e-mail or call us if you're looking for Moroccans.  We keep a "Wanted" list and fill it as specimens become available.  Please see  "Deer Fern Farms Ordering / Policies" for ordering information.

High White Adult Male Sudanese	Adult Female Sudanese

Ornate (Lt), Rainbow, and Sudanese Hatchlings (6-10 months)	4 Week Old Hatchling (by new penny)

We ship based on the prevailing weather patterns between us and you. Usually we can ship most weeks, but when large storms/severe heat/cold are forecasted, we prefer to hold off.   Please see  "Deer Fern Farms Ordering / Policies" for ordering information.

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    Email: douglasdix@deerfernfarms.com

Copyright © 1992-2005 by  Douglas Dix. All rights reserved for all photos and text