Bearded Dragon Young: A Beginner’s Guide

Bearded Dragons are fascinating creatures that are popular with both beginner and experienced reptile owners. These lizards are known for their docile nature, unique appearance, and easy-going demeanor. Bearded dragons, also known as Pogona Vitticeps, are native to Australia and come in a variety of colors and patterns. If you are a beginner reptile owner, you may be considering getting a bearded dragon young. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about caring for your bearded dragon young.

1. What is a Bearded Dragon Young?

A bearded dragon young, also known as a baby beardie, is a bearded dragon that is less than one year old. Baby bearded dragons are typically between 4-6 inches long and are very fragile. These young lizards require specialized care and attention to ensure they grow up healthy and strong.

2. What Should You Look for When Choosing a Bearded Dragon Young?

When choosing a bearded dragon young, look for a lizard that is alert, active, and has a good appetite. Make sure their eyes are clear and their skin is smooth and free of any bumps or bruises. Additionally, look for a lizard that has a well-formed and straight tail. Avoid lizards with kinks or crooked tails as they can indicate underlying health issues.

3. What Type of Housing Do Bearded Dragon Young Need?

Bearded dragon young require a spacious enclosure that is at least 20 gallons in size. You will need to provide a basking area with a heat lamp and a UVB light for 12-14 hours per day. Additionally, you will need to add a substrate, such as reptile carpet or paper towels, and provide hiding places and climbing structures.

4. What Do Bearded Dragon Young Eat?

Bearded dragon young require a diet that is high in protein and calcium. Offer your baby beardie a variety of live insects, such as crickets or mealworms, as well as fresh greens and vegetables. Avoid feeding your bearded dragon young any type of fruit, as it can cause digestive issues.

5. What is the Best Temperature for Bearded Dragon Young?

Bearded dragon young require a basking area that reaches temperatures of 95-105 degrees Fahrenheit. The rest of the enclosure should be kept between 75-85 degrees. At night, you can lower the temperature to around 70-75 degrees.

6. How Often Should You Feed Your Bearded Dragon Young?

Bearded dragon young should be fed 2-3 times per day, with a variety of live insects and greens. Offer your baby beardie as much food as they can eat in 10-15 minutes, and remove any uneaten food to prevent spoilage.

7. How Do You Handle a Bearded Dragon Young?

Handling a bearded dragon young requires patience and gentle hands. When handling your baby beardie, support their entire body and avoid grabbing them by the tail or limbs. Start with short handling sessions and gradually increase the time as your lizard becomes more comfortable.

8. What Common Health Issues Do Bearded Dragon Young Experience?

Bearded dragon young can experience a variety of health issues, including metabolic bone disease, respiratory infections, and parasites. Regular vet checkups and a proper diet can help prevent these issues.

9. What Are Some Fun Facts About Bearded Dragon Young?

Did you know that bearded dragon young are capable of shedding their skin up to 25 times in their first year of life? Or that they are able to communicate through body language, such as head bobbing or waving? These lizards are full of surprises and make a great addition to any reptile lover’s home.

10. Final Thoughts

Caring for a bearded dragon young can be a rewarding experience for both kids and adults alike. As long as you provide your baby beardie with a proper diet, housing, and attention, your lizard is sure to grow up healthy and strong. Remember to handle your bearded dragon young with care, and enjoy watching them grow and thrive in their new environment.