Introduction

Are you looking for a friendly and easy-to-keep reptile pet? Look no further than the blueberry bearded dragon! These fascinating creatures are perfect for beginner owners due to their docile nature and low-maintenance care requirements. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to provide the best possible care for your new blueberry bearded dragon.

What is a Blueberry Bearded Dragon?

The blueberry bearded dragon is a sub-species of the Pogona vitticeps, also known as the central bearded dragon. These dragons are typically smaller in size and are known for their beautiful blue-grey coloring, which gives them their unique name.

Blueberry bearded dragons are native to Australia and are a popular pet choice due to their gentle temperament and ease of care. They make great pets for beginners and experienced reptile owners alike.

Habitat

When it comes to creating a habitat for your blueberry bearded dragon, size is key. A full-grown dragon can reach up to 20 inches in length, so aim for a habitat that is at least 40 gallons. A tank this size will provide your pet with plenty of room to move around, as well as enough space to create a basking area and a cooler area.

For the substrate, use something that is easy to clean and won’t cause impaction. Reptile carpet, non-adhesive shelf liner, and paper towels all make good substrate choices for blueberry bearded dragons.

Lighting and Temperature

Blueberry bearded dragons are ectothermic, which means they rely on external sources to regulate their body temperature. As a result, it is vital to maintain the proper temperature in their habitat.

Place a heat lamp at one end of the tank to create a basking area with a temperature of around 100-110°F. At the other end of the tank, provide a cooler area with a temperature of around 80°F. Use a reptile thermometer to monitor the temperature and adjust as needed.

In addition to heat, blueberry bearded dragons also require UVB lighting. UVB lighting is essential for their health, as it helps them to synthesize vitamin D3. Without UVB lighting, they can suffer from metabolic bone disease.

For a blueberry bearded dragon’s habitat, use a fluorescent UVB bulb, which should be placed around 12-18 inches from the basking area. Be sure to replace the bulb every 6-12 months to ensure that the UVB output remains strong.

Feeding

Blueberry bearded dragons are omnivores, which means they eat both meat and plants. In the wild, they primarily feed on insects and small rodents, as well as vegetation.

As a pet owner, you can feed your blueberry bearded dragon a diet of crickets, mealworms, dubia roaches, and dark leafy greens like kale and collard greens. Offer insects every day and greens every other day. Dust the insects with a calcium supplement a couple of times a week to ensure your dragon gets enough calcium as this helps their bones grow strong and healthy.

Handling

Blueberry bearded dragons are generally docile and enjoy being handled. When picking up your dragon, be gentle and support them with both hands. Hold them close to your body and avoid squeezing or pinching their skin.

Handle your blueberry bearded dragon for short periods at first and gradually increase the time as they become more comfortable with you. Avoid handling them during shedding periods or when they are feeling stressed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a blueberry bearded dragon makes an excellent pet choice for beginners due to their friendly temperament and low-maintenance care requirements. By providing them with the proper habitat, lighting, temperature, and diet, you can enjoy many years of companionship with your new dragon friend. With proper care, your blueberry bearded dragon can live up to 12 years, making them a long-term and enjoyable pet choice!