Introduction

Bearded dragons are one of the most popular reptiles to keep as pets. They are friendly, social and relatively easy to care for. One aspect of bearded dragon care that is often overlooked is setting up their living space. Every pet deserves a comfortable living space, and bearded dragons are no exception. Bearded dragon shelves are an essential piece of reptile furniture that should not be overlooked. In this ultimate guide, we will cover everything you need to know about bearded dragon shelves.

What are Bearded Dragon Shelves?

Bearded dragon shelves are elevated platforms that can be added to a bearded dragon’s living space. They are typically made of wood, plastic or metal and provide an additional level of vertical space for your bearded dragon to climb and bask on. Bearded dragon shelves can also be used as an additional resting spot, which is important for bearded dragons as they require a lot of rest throughout the day. Additionally, bearded dragon shelves can be used to create different temperature zones in the enclosure, which is vital for your bearded dragon’s health and well-being.

Why do Bearded Dragons Need Shelves?

Bearded dragons are a semi-arboreal species, which means they spend a lot of their time in trees and bushes in the wild. In captivity, it is important to recreate this environment as closely as possible. Bearded dragon shelves can provide a vertical space for them to climb and bask, which is essential for their physical and mental well-being. Additionally, bearded dragons require a basking spot to maintain their body temperature, and shelves can be used to create different temperature zones in the enclosure.

Types of Bearded Dragon Shelves

There are several types of bearded dragon shelves available on the market. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, and you should choose the one that best suits your bearded dragon’s needs. The most common types of bearded dragon shelves include:

Wooden Shelves

Wooden shelves are the most popular type of bearded dragon shelves. They are sturdy, durable and provide a natural look to your bearded dragon’s living space. However, wooden shelves can be difficult to clean and are not suitable for use with heat lamps.

Plastic Shelves

Plastic shelves are lightweight and easy to clean. They come in a variety of sizes and colors and can be easily attached to the sides of your bearded dragon’s enclosure. However, plastic shelves may not be durable enough for larger bearded dragons and may need to be replaced frequently.

Metal Shelves

Metal shelves are sturdy and long-lasting. They are suitable for use with heat lamps and can support larger bearded dragons. However, metal shelves can be more expensive and may not provide a natural look to your bearded dragon’s living space.

How to Choose the Best Bearded Dragon Shelves

Choosing the best bearded dragon shelves for your pet can be a daunting process. Here are some factors that you should consider when selecting bearded dragon shelves:

Size

The size of the bearded dragon shelves should be appropriate for your pet’s size. Larger bearded dragons will require larger shelves, while smaller bearded dragons will do better with smaller shelves.

Material

The material of the bearded dragon shelves should be sturdy, durable and easy to clean. Wooden shelves provide a natural look, while plastic and metal shelves may be more durable.

Cost

The cost of the bearded dragon shelves should be within your budget. Wooden shelves may be more expensive, while plastic shelves may be more affordable.

Heat Lamp Compatibility

If you are using a heat lamp in your bearded dragon’s enclosure, make sure that the shelves are compatible with heat lamps. Plastic shelves may melt under the heat of a lamp, while metal shelves are more suitable for use with heat lamps.

How to Set Up Bearded Dragon Shelves

Setting up bearded dragon shelves is a straightforward process. Here are the steps you should follow:

Step 1: Choose the Right Size Shelves

Choose bearded dragon shelves that are appropriate for your bearded dragon’s size.

Step 2: Clean the Shelves

Clean the shelves thoroughly before installing them in your bearded dragon’s enclosure. Use a reptile-specific disinfectant to ensure that the shelves are free of bacteria and parasites.

Step 3: Install the Shelves

Install the shelves in your bearded dragon’s enclosure according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure that the shelves are secure and do not wobble or tip over.

Conclusion

Bearded dragon shelves are an essential piece of reptile furniture that should not be overlooked. They provide a vertical space for your bearded dragon to climb and bask, which is vital for their physical and mental well-being. Additionally, bearded dragon shelves can be used to create different temperature zones in the enclosure. When choosing the best bearded dragon shelves for your pet, consider the size, material, cost and heat lamp compatibility. Follow the steps outlined in this guide to set up bearded dragon shelves in your pet’s enclosure. Your bearded dragon will thank you for it!