Introduction

Bearded dragons are one of the most popular reptile pets. These gentle lizards are great for beginner reptile owners and make great companions. However, proper care and setting up a bearded dragon tank are essential for their health and happiness. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about setting up your bearded dragon’s tank, from selecting the right tank to creating the perfect environment for your dragon.

Choosing the Right Tank

The first step in setting up a bearded dragon tank is choosing the right size tank. Bearded dragons can grow up to 2 feet in length, so a minimum tank size of 40 gallons is recommended for one adult dragon. If you plan on owning multiple dragons or have a young dragon, you will need a larger tank.

The tank should be made of glass or clear plastic and have a secure screen lid to prevent escapes. Screens allow proper ventilation and natural sunlight to enter the tank. The tank should also be easy to clean and not too heavy to lift or move.

Setting Up the Tank

Once you have the tank, it’s time to set it up for your bearded dragon. Here are the essential items you will need:

• Substrate – This is the material that lines the bottom of the tank. Avoid sand as it can cause impaction. Tile, paper towels, or reptile carpet are good options.
• Heat Lamp – Bearded dragons require a basking spot of around 100-110°F. A heat lamp should be positioned over the basking spot.
• UVB Lamp – Bearded dragons need UVB lighting to produce vitamin D3 and absorb calcium. The lamp should cover 2/3 of the tank and be replaced every 6-12 months.
• Thermometer – A thermometer is essential to monitor the temperature in the tank.
• Hide Box – Bearded dragons need a place to hide and feel secure. A hide box can be a commercial product or a simple cardboard box.
• Food and Water Dish – These should be shallow and easy to clean.
• Decorations – Add rocks, branches, and plants to create a natural environment for your dragon.

The basking spot should be provided by placing a basking lamp over the area where the dragon will spend most of its time. The UVB bulb should be placed on the opposite side of the tank where the dragon can bask in natural sunlight. Thermometers should be placed in both the basking and cool areas of the tank to ensure proper temperature gradients.

Maintaining the Tank

Proper maintenance of the bearded dragon tank is essential for your dragon’s health. Here are some tips to keep your tank clean and your dragon happy:

• Spot clean daily – Remove any feces or uneaten food from the tank every day.
• Weekly cleaning – Every week, remove and replace the substrate and clean the tank with a reptile-safe cleaner.
• Monthly deep cleaning – Every month, deep clean the tank, decorations, and dishes with a reptile-safe disinfectant.

Remember to also replace the UVB bulbs every 6-12 months and the basking bulb every 3-6 months.

Feeding Your Bearded Dragon

Bearded dragons are omnivores and require a varied diet of fruits, vegetables, and insects. Baby bearded dragons should be fed 2-3 times a day, while adult dragons should be fed once a day.

• Vegetables – dark, leafy greens like turnip, mustard, and collard greens should make up most of the diet.
• Fruits – feed in moderation, such as raspberries, apples, and blueberries.
• Insects – crickets, mealworms, and dubia roaches are good options. Offer insects daily to juveniles and every other day to adults. Dust with calcium powder twice a week.

Avoid feeding your dragon wild-caught insects, as they may be carrying parasites or pesticides. Do not feed your dragon any insects larger than the space between their eyes, as they may cause impaction.

Conclusion

Setting up a bearded dragon tank may seem intimidating at first, but with the right equipment and care, it’s easy to create a comfortable and healthy environment for your dragon. Remember to monitor the tank temperature and UVB lighting, clean the tank regularly, and feed your dragon a varied diet. With a little love and attention, your bearded dragon will thrive in its new home.