Introduction

Bearded dragons are among the most popular reptile species in the world, thanks to their friendly nature and unique appearance. As their popularity continues to grow, it’s important to educate beginners on how to take care of these amazing creatures. One of the essential things that you need to know is the Eastern Bearded Dragon habitat.

What is the Eastern Bearded Dragon Habitat?

The Eastern Bearded Dragon is a species of lizard native to Eastern and South Australia. They have unique features, including spikes on their neck and a pouch under their chin that they can inflate during mating or territorial displays. They are known to be social and docile creatures, making them perfect pets for beginners.

One of the most critical factors in keeping a pet beardie happy and healthy is creating the perfect habitat. A habitat that mimics their natural environment will keep them happy and reduce the risk of diseases and stress.

Eastern Bearded Dragon Habitat Setup

The first step in setting up the Eastern Bearded Dragon habitat is finding the right size tank. Dragons love to roam, so they need a spacious enclosure. A 40-gallon tank is suitable for baby dragons, while mature ones require a 60-gallon tank. The enclosure should be longer than it is tall, as this species doesn’t climb much.

The next step is preparing the substrate. Bearded dragons love digging, so you need a substrate that allows them to burrow. Calcium sand or a mixture of sand and reptile bark works best. Avoid using loose substrates like coconut coir or cypress mulch as they can cause impaction in beardies that might swallow them.

Another crucial aspect of the habitat setup is creating the ideal lighting and temperature. Eastern Bearded Dragons are diurnal creatures, which means they are active during the day and sleep at night. They need temperatures between 80 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and around 70 degrees at night. You’ll need a basking lamp, UVB lighting, and a heating mat to regulate the temperature and provide the necessary heating element.

Creating the Perfect Habitat

Bearded dragons love climbing, basking and roaming – so, the more things you add to their habitat, the better. Here are some essentials:

Basking Area

Bearded dragons love to bask in the sun. So, creating a basking area with a heat lamp is a must. You can include a basking rock or branch for your pet to perch on while soaking up the heat.

Hideout

Bearded dragons love to hide, and it’s essential to have a place where they can rest and feel safe. Include a hideout in the habitat, such as a hollow log, rock formation or enclosed hut.

Decoration

Finally, you can add decorations like plants, rocks, and logs to make the habitat more visually appealing. You can also include a shallow water dish where they can soak or cool down.

Conclusion

Creating the perfect habitat for your Eastern Bearded Dragon requires some effort, but it’s essential for your pet’s health and happiness. Ensure that you have the right enclosure, substrate, lighting, temperature, and decorations. Remember to clean the enclosure regularly and provide fresh water and food daily. With the right care and attention, your Eastern Bearded Dragon can live a long and healthy life.