Introduction

Are you considering getting a bearded bearded dragon as a pet? These fascinating creatures are a popular choice for both beginner and experienced reptile keepers. But before you bring one home, there are a few things you should know. In this article, we’ll give you 10 fascinating facts about bearded bearded dragons.

What is a Bearded Bearded Dragon?

Bearded bearded dragons, also known as Pogona vitticeps, are native to the deserts and woodlands of Australia. They are diurnal (active during the day) and omnivorous (eating both plants and insects). Their name comes from the spiny scales under their chins that they puff out when threatened or stressed, giving them the appearance of having a beard.

Fact 1: They Have a Unique Respiratory System

Bearded bearded dragons have a unique respiratory system that allows them to breathe through both their nose and mouth at the same time. This is because they have two separate air passages, one for breathing and one for smelling. They also have a small sac in their throat called the sublingual pouch that helps them store air during periods of exertion.

Fact 2: Their Tail Acts as a Fat Reserve

Like many other reptiles, bearded bearded dragons store fat in their tails. This allows them to survive for long periods without food or water. However, it’s important not to let your dragon’s tail become too thin, as this can be a sign of malnutrition or illness.

Fact 3: They Can Change Their Color

Bearded bearded dragons can change their colors to regulate their body temperature and communicate with other dragons. When they’re cold, they’ll darken their skin to absorb more heat from their surroundings. When they’re hot, they’ll lighten their skin to reflect more heat. Males will also darken their colors to show dominance or aggression.

Fact 4: They Like to Bask

Bearded bearded dragons are sun-loving creatures that need plenty of heat and UVB light to stay healthy. In the wild, they’ll spend most of their day basking in the sun to absorb enough heat and UVB. As a pet owner, it’s important to provide your dragon with a basking spot that’s at least 100°F.

Fact 5: They’re Social Creatures

Bearded bearded dragons are social creatures that like to interact with their owners and other dragons. However, they can also become territorial and aggressive if they feel threatened. It’s important to provide your dragon with plenty of hiding spots and a large enough enclosure to prevent them from feeling overcrowded.

Fact 6: They Need a Balanced Diet

Bearded bearded dragons are omnivores that need a balanced diet of both plant-based and insect-based foods. As a general rule, their diet should consist of about 70% vegetables and 30% insects. Some good vegetable choices include collard greens, mustard greens, and butternut squash, while insect choices include crickets, mealworms, and dubia roaches.

Fact 7: They Can Grow up to 24 Inches Long

Bearded bearded dragons can grow up to 24 inches long, with males tending to be slightly larger than females. As a pet owner, it’s important to provide your dragon with an enclosure that’s at least 4 feet long, 2 feet deep, and 2 feet high to give them enough room to move around and exercise.

Fact 8: They Shed Their Skin

Like other reptiles, bearded bearded dragons regularly shed their skin. This helps them grow and get rid of any parasites or bacteria on their skin. As a pet owner, it’s important to provide your dragon with a humid hide to help them shed their skin more easily.

Fact 9: They Can Live up to 15 Years

Bearded bearded dragons can live up to 15 years in captivity if they’re given proper care and nutrition. As a pet owner, it’s important to be prepared for the long-term commitment of owning a dragon.

Fact 10: They’re Fun and Interactive Pets

Bearded bearded dragons are fun and interactive pets that can form strong bonds with their owners. They’re also relatively easy to care for, making them a great choice for beginner reptile keepers. However, it’s important to do your research and provide your dragon with proper care and nutrition.

Conclusion

Bearded bearded dragons are fascinating creatures that can make great pets for the right owner. If you’re considering getting a dragon, be sure to do your research and provide them with proper care and nutrition. With the proper care, you can enjoy many years of happy companionship with your new pet dragon.