Introduction

Bearded dragons make great pets for beginners. They are docile, easy to care for and come in a variety of colors. They are also known as Pogona and are native to the deserts of Australia. Caring for them is easy, but you need to know the basics before adopting one as a pet. Here are 11 fascinating facts about bearded dragons every beginner needs to know.

1. They are docile

Bearded dragons are known for their docile nature. They are not aggressive and rarely bite, making them perfect for beginner pet owners. They can be picked up and handled with ease, making them great for kids and adults alike. They enjoy being handled and will often relax in your arms or on your lap.

2. They have distinct personalities

Each bearded dragon has its own unique personality. Some are more social than others, while some prefer to be left alone. They can also be trained to do basic tricks like waving, which is both fun and rewarding for both you and your pet.

3. They are omnivores

Bearded dragons are omnivores, which means they eat both plants and animals. In the wild, their diet consists of mostly insects, but they can also eat vegetables, fruits, and even small mammals. As a pet owner, it’s important to provide a well-balanced diet to ensure your bearded dragon stays healthy.

4. They need both UVB and UVA light

Bearded dragons need both UVB and UVA light to stay healthy. UVB light helps them produce vitamin D3, which is essential for calcium absorption, while UVA light mimics the natural sunlight they would receive in the wild. You can purchase special lamps designed for reptiles to provide the necessary light for your bearded dragon.

5. They love to bask

Bearded dragons love to bask in the sun. In fact, they spend most of their day basking to regulate their body temperature. It’s important to provide a basking spot in their enclosure, as well as a cooler area for them to retreat to when they need to cool off.

6. They shed their skin

Bearded dragons shed their skin just like snakes. This is a normal process, but it’s important to ensure they have the proper humidity levels in their enclosure to facilitate the shedding process. You’ll also need to provide a rough surface for them to rub against, which will help remove the dead skin.

7. They can change color

Bearded dragons can change their color depending on their mood, temperature, and even their health. They can darken their skin to absorb more heat or lighten it to reflect heat. They can also change color to show aggression, excitement or to communicate with other bearded dragons.

8. They have a unique defense mechanism

Bearded dragons have a unique defense mechanism. When threatened, they will puff up their throat and open their mouth to display their sharp teeth. They will also flatten their body to make themselves look bigger. This is usually enough to deter predators, but they can also run up to 9 miles per hour to escape danger.

9. They are social animals

Bearded dragons are social animals and can be housed together if they are of similar size and temperament. However, it’s important to provide enough space and resources for each bearded dragon to prevent aggression and competition for resources.

10. They can live up to 20 years

With proper care, bearded dragons can live up to 20 years in captivity. This is a long-term commitment, so it’s important to be prepared for the responsibility before adopting one as a pet. They will require daily care, including feeding, cleaning, and providing the necessary environmental conditions to ensure they stay healthy.

11. They make great pets

Bearded dragons make great pets for beginners. They are low-maintenance, friendly, and easy to care for. They come in a variety of colors, so you can choose one that suits your personality. They are also great for teaching kids about responsibility and caring for animals.

Conclusion

Bearded dragons are fascinating creatures that make great pets. They are low-maintenance, friendly, and easy to care for. With the right environment, diet, and care, they can live up to 20 years in captivity. If you’re looking for a pet that’s unique and fun to watch, a bearded dragon may be the perfect pet for you.