Introduction

Bearded dragons are among the most popular reptiles kept as pets. They are friendly, docile, and easy to care for, which makes them ideal for beginners. One of the most important aspects of keeping a bearded dragon as a pet is providing a suitable and comfortable tank. In this blog post, we will explore the cool side of bearded dragon tanks and provide you with tips and tricks for setting up a great tank for your bearded dragon.

Why Is the Cool Side of the Tank Important?

Bearded dragons are cold-blooded animals, which means they cannot regulate their body temperature as effectively as warm-blooded animals. Therefore, it is important to provide them with a gradient of temperatures in their tank.

The warm side of the tank should have a basking spot with a temperature around 100-110°F (38-43°C). The cool side of the tank should have a temperature of around 75-85°F (24-29°C). This temperature gradient will allow your bearded dragon to regulate its body temperature by moving to the warm or cool side of the tank depending on its needs.

Setting Up the Cool Side of the Tank

Setting up the cool side of the tank is not difficult, but there are some things to keep in mind. First, you need to place the cool side of the tank away from any direct heat sources such as windows, heaters, or lamps. This will ensure that the temperature on the cool side of the tank remains stable and does not fluctuate too much.

The easiest way to cool down the tank is to provide a shaded area. You can do this by placing a piece of cardboard or a plant on the cool side of the tank. This will create an area of shade where your bearded dragon can go to cool down.

If your bearded dragon is exhibiting signs of overheating, such as panting or lethargy, you may need to provide additional cooling. You can do this by using a reptile-specific cooling mat or by misting the cool side of the tank with water. However, be careful not to make the environment too humid, as this can lead to respiratory issues for your bearded dragon.

Decorating the Tank

Decorating your bearded dragon tank is not just aesthetically pleasing, but it can also serve a functional purpose. By adding hiding spots and climbing structures, you can create a more enriching environment for your bearded dragon. When decorating the cool side of the tank, make sure to choose decorations that do not retain heat. Materials such as plastic or ceramic are good choices.

Conclusion

Setting up the cool side of your bearded dragon tank is crucial for your pet’s health and wellbeing. By providing a gradient of temperatures and a shaded area, you can ensure that your bearded dragon can regulate its body temperature while also enjoying a comfortable and stimulating environment.