BEARDED DRAGON
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The Bearded Dragon is a Diurnal lizard species from Australia. They tend to stick to hot and arid area including deserts, scrublands and savannas.
These amazing creatures are one of the most popular reptiles to keep as pets due to their docile nature, unique appearance, and easy care requirements.
They come in many different colours and pattern, these are called morphs. some include Leatherback , hypo, translucent and zero.
Bearded Dragons are a terrestrial species but will utilise climbing space if offered especially as babies. They usually reach sexual maturity at age 1-2.
Care level: Easy
Average lifespan: 10-15 years
General nature: Gentle, Curious, Comical
Suitable for children? Yes
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Recommended readings:
Hot spot: 38⁰C-40⁰C
Background temp: 23⁰C-30⁰C
Night-time temp: 16⁰C-23⁰C
Humidity: 30%-40%
UVI: 1.0 – 2.6 (Maximum UVI: 2.9 – 7.4 in basking zone)
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Suitable housing (wooden vivarium)
Clamp lamp with ceramic holder
T5 UVB Kit
Dimming Thermostat
Beardie life (or similar)
Water bowl
Relevant supplements
Decor of choice
Scoop for spot-cleaning
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The Bearded Dragon should be housed in a vivarium (4 x 2 x 2 ft)
Wooden Vivariums tend to work best for Bearded dragons over glass terrariums or PVC plastic enclosures, as wood is a better insulator, and works better to maintain the hot temperatures required for a Beardie.
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Bearded Dragons are a diurnal species and require a suitable light and heat gradient in the enclosure to simulate a complete 24-hour period
A strong overhead basking bulb should be provided to replicate the light produced by the sun which Bearded Dragons require to thrive.
Heat mats are not required for Bearded Dragons if sufficient overhead heating is provided!
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Bearded Dragons require a strong UVB T5 bulb to ensure the synthesis of vitamin D3, which helps to absorb calcium.
A T5 bulb should be replaced every 12 months even if the bulb is still giving off light, there will be significantly less UVB output after 12 months.
If Beardies are not given correct UVB exposure they can develop metabolic bone disease which can be fatal.
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Bearded Dragons should be offered a veriety of insects and dark leafy vegetables including , kale, and mixed lettuce leaves.
A young dragon should not be offered mealworms as they have a hard exo skeleton and are indigestible for babies and juveniles.
There are also some fruit and veg that are not good for Beardies and even toxic to them so please ensure you have done your research on what you can feed them!
Follow a supplementation regime that involves calcium and multivitamin powders. (We Recommend Arcadia supplements and schedule is on their)
