Introduction

Bearded dragons are fascinating creatures and great pets for people who love reptiles. These lizards are native to Australia and can live up to 20 years if taken care of properly. One of the things that make them so interesting is their behavior, such as their natural instinct to dig. In captivity, providing a digging box is essential for the health and happiness of these lizards. In this post, we will discuss everything you need to know about bearded dragon digging box substrate.

What is a Digging Box?

A digging box is an essential part of a bearded dragon’s enclosure. It is a place where they can dig and burrow, which is a natural behavior for them. Providing a digging box is not only fun for your pet, but it also helps to prevent impaction, which is a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur in bearded dragons when they ingest indigestible objects.

What is Digging Box Substrate?

Digging box substrate is the material that is used to fill the digging box. The ideal substrate should be loose and provide your bearded dragon with the opportunity to dig down and feel safe and secure. The right substrate also encourages natural burrowing behavior and helps to stimulate your dragon’s natural instincts.

Types of Digging Box Substrate

There are several options for substrates that can be used in a bearded dragon digging box. The best choice depends on your bearded dragon’s personal preference, but some popular options include:

Sand

Sand is a popular substrate that is often used in bearded dragon enclosures. It is easy to find and mimics the natural environment of your lizard. It is important to note that not all sand is created equal. Be sure to use calcium sand, as the consumption of regular sand can lead to impaction.

Soil

Soil is another popular substrate that is used in a digging box. It provides a natural environment and can be easily mixed with sand to create the perfect substrate for your dragon.

Mulch

Mulch is a substrate that is made up of shredded wood, bark, or other organic materials. It is often used in outdoor enclosures and can be a bit messy, but it is great for encouraging natural behavior and provides a soft surface for your dragon to dig in.

How to Set Up a Digging Box

Now that you know about the different types of digging box substrates, it’s time to set up a digging box for your bearded dragon. Here’s how to do it:

• Find a suitable container. The size of the container should be at least four times the size of your bearded dragon.
• Fill the container with your chosen substrate to a depth of at least 6 inches
• Make a hole in the substrate to encourage your dragon to start digging.

Maintaining Your Digging Box

Keeping your digging box clean is important for the health of your bearded dragon. Here are some tips for maintaining your digging box:

• Spot clean daily. Remove any feces, leftover food, or debris.
• Change the substrate every 2-3 weeks.
• Disinfect the container before adding fresh substrate.
• Observe your bearded dragon regularly while they are using the digging box. Look for any signs of illness or injury.

Conclusion

Providing a digging box for your bearded dragon is essential for their health and happiness. With the right digging box substrate, your dragon can enjoy a natural environment and showcase their natural behavior. Be sure to follow the tips outlined in this post to provide your bearded dragon with a safe, healthy, and stimulating environment.