Introduction

Hatchling bearded dragons are adorable, miniature versions of their adult counterparts. But, caring for a baby lizard can be quite challenging, especially if you’re new to reptile keeping. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about hatchling bearded dragons, from housing and feeding to handling and general care.

Housing

The first thing you need to consider when getting a hatchling bearded dragon is the housing. A baby bearded dragon requires a smaller enclosure than an adult, typically a 20-gallon tank is suitable. It should have a screen lid to provide adequate ventilation and a heat lamp to keep the temperature warm enough, around 80-85°F during the day and 70-75°F at night.

Feeding

Feeding a hatchling bearded dragon requires a balanced diet that consists of both insects and vegetables. As a general rule of thumb, the diet should consist of 80% insects and 20% vegetables.

Some of the best insect options for hatchling bearded dragons include crickets, silk worms, and small dubia roaches. You can also offer occasional treats such as mealworms or super worms, but they should not be the main component of their diet.

For vegetables, you can offer a variety of greens such as collard greens, turnip greens, and dandelion greens. You can also offer squash, carrots, and sweet potatoes as occasional treats. It’s important to provide a shallow dish of fresh water for your hatchling bearded dragon at all times.

Handling

Handling hatchling bearded dragons can be tricky, as they are delicate and sensitive creatures. It’s important to handle them gently and avoid picking them up by the tail, as the tail may break off as a defense mechanism.

It’s best to start by picking them up with a gentle scoop and letting them sit on your hand. Gradually, you can increase the time you handle them as they get more comfortable with you. However, keep handling to a minimum in the first few weeks, as hatchling bearded dragons need time to adjust to their new home.

General Care

In addition to proper housing, feeding, and handling, there are a few other things you need to consider for the general care of your hatchling bearded dragon.

Firstly, you should provide a basking spot under the heat lamp where your hatchling bearded dragon can warm up and digest its food. You should also offer a hide box, as bearded dragons like to have a space to retreat to when they feel stressed or threatened.

Additionally, you should clean the enclosure regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria and ensure that your hatchling bearded dragon has a clean living space. Lastly, take your hatchling bearded dragon to a reptile veterinarian for regular checkups and parasite screenings.

Conclusion

Taking care of a hatchling bearded dragon can be quite rewarding, but it requires a lot of patience and dedication. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can provide your hatchling bearded dragon with a happy and healthy life.