Breed Introduction
The Bearded Dragon is a medium-sized lizard adapted to life in rocky, dry grasslands, and desert regions. Scientifically known as Pogona vitticeps, they are distinguished by their robust build and spiny beard-like collar around their neck. These lizards are known for their fascinating behaviors and manageable care requirements, making them ideal pets for beginners and experienced reptile keepers alike.
- Length: Adult Bearded Dragons typically measure 16 to 24 inches.
- Weight: Adult Bearded Dragons weigh about 300 to 500 grams.
- Behavior: Bearded Dragons are known for their docile nature and rarely bite, even when threatened. They are active during the day and enjoy human interaction, often perching on their owner’s shoulder.
In the wild, Bearded Dragons are omnivores, consuming a variety of invertebrates and vertebrates, including insects and small animals, as well as plants. In captivity, they should be fed a combination of insects and vegetables. Generally, Bearded Dragons should be fed at least once every 24 hours, depending on their age. Young Bearded Dragons often eat three times a day.
Feed Bearded Dragons crickets that are not too large, especially for young dragons. The size of the food should be no larger than the distance between the dragon’s eyes. For adult Bearded Dragons, you can offer a variety of insects such as waxworms, silkworms, butterworms, red worms, earthworms, freshly molted mealworms, and superworms. Pinkie mice can also be offered occasionally to adult Bearded Dragons.
Insects should be gut-loaded (fed nutritious foods that pass to your pet) and lightly dusted with calcium and vitamin D supplements to prevent metabolic bone disease. Dust with a complete multivitamin no more than once a week.
In addition to insects, Bearded Dragons should be fed a mixture of leafy greens and other vegetables and fruits. These items can be chopped and mixed together to make a salad, which can be fed in a shallow bowl. Leafy greens can also be clipped to the side of the enclosure.
Provide water to your Bearded Dragon in a shallow dish. If your dragon enjoys soaking in the water, you can offer a larger dish for it to climb into occasionally.
- Natural Habitat: Bearded Dragons originate from arid, mountainous desert regions and prefer rocky substrates.
- Enclosure: A 55 to 75-gallon tank with a secure screen top is ideal. Provide climbing structures, hiding spots, and a basking area.
- Lighting: Needs 12 hours of visible light per day, using a UVA/UVB light source.
- Temperature: Should be maintained between 75-80°F (cool side), 80-85°F (warm side), and 90-95°F (basking spot).
- Humidity: Maintain around 35-40% humidity.
- Substrate: For young dragons, use paper towels or reptile carpet. Avoid loose substrates like sand to prevent accidental ingestion. For adults, use washed play sand or similar substrates. Avoid wood shavings, corn cob, walnut shell, or other materials that could cause ingestion problems. If using sand, clean feces with a cat litter scoop. Sand allows Bearded Dragons to dig and burrow, which they enjoy.
- Shedding: Frequent shedding is common, especially in young dragons. Proper humidity and hydration are vital during shedding periods.
- Health Issues: Bearded Dragons can suffer from metabolic bone disease and respiratory infections if not provided with proper care.
Caring for a Bearded Dragon can be a rewarding experience due to their unique characteristics and manageable care requirements. Here are some quick tips:
- Varied Diet: Ensures they receive all necessary nutrients.
- Proper Enclosure: Adequate space and the correct type of substrate help prevent stress and health issues.
- Regular Interaction: Helps tame your dragon and reinforces its docile nature.
- Monitoring Temperature: Crucial for their health and well-being, especially during shedding periods.
How can you tell the gender of a Bearded Dragon?
Shine a flashlight (the one on your phone works fine) through the Bearded Dragon’s tail. If there are two bumps inside, it’s a male. If there’s one, it’s a female.
Why isn’t my Bearded Dragon eating?
There are many reasons your Bearded Dragon might not be eating. If it’s winter, it might be going through brumation, a period of dormancy. Your dragon might also be shedding its skin, which can cause a papery appearance.
Is your Bearded Dragon getting enough UVB light? Without it, they can lose their appetite and suffer from bone loss. Your dragon might also be cold, so check to ensure its enclosure is heated correctly.
If none of these are the issue, you might need to contact your exotics veterinarian to find the root cause and fix it.
How do you bathe a Bearded Dragon?
Bearded Dragons need to be bathed a couple of times per week. Bathwater should be no deeper than its knees, with water that is 85 to 92°F. Simply splash water on the dragon and let it enjoy the bath. No soap is needed. After about 20 minutes, remove it from the bath and pat it dry. Place it back under its warm lights to ensure it stays warm.
