Introduction

Bearded dragons are fascinating reptiles that make great pets. If you’re a beginner and considering getting a bearded dragon, one of the first things you’ll need to do is set up a suitable tank for them to live in. The minimum tank size for an adult bearded dragon is 40 gallons, so it’s important to get it right to keep your new pet healthy and happy. In this guide, we’ll take you step-by-step through the process of setting up a bearded dragon 40 gallon tank.

Choosing the right tank

The first step is to choose the right tank for your bearded dragon. A 40-gallon tank is the minimum size for an adult bearded dragon, but if you can afford a larger tank, it’s always better to go for it. Bearded dragons are active and curious creatures that like to have a lot of room to explore and climb. An adequately sized tank also provides room for temperature gradients so that your bearded dragon can move around and regulate its body temperature as needed.

When choosing a tank, you should also consider its material. Glass tanks are the most common choice, but they can be heavy and breakable. Plastic tanks are also available, but they scratch more easily and can be difficult to clean. Your choice of substrate will also depend on the type of tank you choose. We recommend a solid substrate like reptile carpet or tile.

Setting up the tank

Now that you have your tank, it’s time to set it up. First, clean the tank thoroughly to remove any dirt, dust or residue. Then, place a layer of substrate at the bottom of the tank. Make sure it’s a solid substrate like reptile carpet or tile, as we mentioned earlier. This makes it easy to clean and maintain the tank.

Next, set up your heat source. Bearded dragons require a heat source to stay healthy and happy. You can use a heat lamp at one end of the tank, which should hover about 12 inches above the basking spot. You’ll need a thermometer to monitor the temperature and adjust it accordingly. The basking spot should be around 100-110°F, and the cooler end of the tank should be around 70-80°F.

Bearded dragons also require a UVB source to stay healthy. This can come from a UVB bulb that you’ll need to replace every six months. The bulb should be placed at the same end of the tank as the heat lamp to provide a basking spot with both heat and UVB light. The bearded dragon should have access to this spot during the day for around 12-14 hours.

You’ll also need to provide a hiding spot at the cooler end of the tank, where your bearded dragon can retreat to if they feel stressed or want some privacy. You can use a log, a hide box, or any other suitable cover.

Feeding and Watering

Finally, you’ll need to supply your bearded dragon with food and water. Bearded dragons are omnivores, which means they eat both insects and vegetables. You can feed them crickets, mealworms, waxworms, and other insects along with greens like collards, kale, and mustard greens. Avoid feeding them iceberg lettuce, spinach, and other vegetables with low nutritional value.

For water, you can use a shallow dish that your bearded dragon can drink from. Make sure it’s easily accessible and clean it frequently to prevent bacterial growth.

Conclusion

Setting up a bearded dragon 40 gallon tank for your new pet can be a rewarding experience. By following the steps listed above, you can create a safe and healthy environment that your bearded dragon can thrive in for years to come. Remember to monitor the temperature and humidity levels, clean the tank regularly, and provide food and water suitable for your bearded dragon. With the right care and attention, your new pet will quickly become a beloved member of your family.