What Is A Bearded Dragon?

Bearded dragons, or ‘beardies’ as they are lovingly called, are a popular choice for a pet reptile. They are relatively easy to care for and have a friendly disposition, making them an ideal pet for beginners. Originating from Australia, they are a type of lizard that can grow up to 2 feet in length.

Housing

When it comes to housing your bearded dragon, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, they need a spacious enclosure to live in. As they are active creatures, they require plenty of room to move around and climb. A 40-gallon tank is the minimum size recommended for an adult bearded dragon.

You will also need to provide a basking spot for your bearded dragon, as they require heat to digest their food properly. A basking bulb or ceramic heat emitter is recommended, and a temperature gradient of 95-100 degrees Fahrenheit in the basking spot and 80-85 degrees Fahrenheit in the cool area should be maintained. Additionally, you will need to provide a UVB light to mimic natural sunlight, which is essential for their well-being.

Substrate

Choosing a suitable substrate for your bearded dragon is important for their health. Avoid using any loose substrates such as sand or wood chips, as they can cause impaction if ingested. Instead, use reptile carpet, paper towels, or tile as a flooring option.

Food

Bearded dragons are omnivores, which means they eat both insects and vegetables. An ideal diet for an adult bearded dragon consists of 80% vegetables and 20% insects. Some suitable vegetable options include collard greens, mustard greens, and butternut squash. Insects such as crickets, mealworms, and dubia roaches are good protein sources.

It’s important to gut-load your insects, meaning you feed them a nutritious diet a few hours before feeding them to your bearded dragon. This ensures that your dragon is getting the necessary vitamins and minerals.

Accessories

There are a few accessories that you may want to consider when caring for your bearded dragon. A hide box is a must, as it provides them with a dark and secure place to retreat to when they need to feel safe. Rocks and branches can also be added to the enclosure to provide climbing opportunities and enrichment.

Conclusion

Caring for a bearded dragon may seem daunting at first, but with the right knowledge and supplies, it can be a rewarding experience. Providing your dragon with a suitable enclosure, heating and lighting, proper substrate, a well-balanced diet, and some accessories will ensure a happy and healthy life for your new pet.