What Reptiles Can Live With a Bearded Dragon?
What Reptiles Can Live With a Bearded Dragon?
Bearded dragons are popular pets for reptile enthusiasts due to their friendly demeanor and ease of care. While bearded dragons can live solo, many owners wonder if it is possible to house their dragon with other reptiles. In this blog post, we will explore which reptiles can live with a bearded dragon and the guidelines to follow for successful cohabitation.
Important Considerations Before Housing Reptiles Together
Before introducing another reptile to your bearded dragon’s habitat, keep in mind these essential considerations:
- The size of your terrarium or vivarium
- The age and size of your bearded dragon
- The temperament of your bearded dragon
- The temperament of the reptile you wish to introduce
- The dietary needs of both reptiles
- Environmental needs such as temperature, humidity, and lighting
- The availability of hiding spots and basking areas for all reptiles.
Reptiles That Can Live With a Bearded Dragon
Here are some reptiles that can potentially live with a bearded dragon:
1. Rankin’s Dragon
Rankin’s dragons, also known as Lawson’s dragons, are similar in size and temperament to bearded dragons. They require similar environmental needs and share similar dietary needs. However, introduce them carefully and always monitor their behavior to prevent any aggression.
2. Leopard Gecko
Leopard geckos are smaller than bearded dragons and have a different diet, but they are docile and tend to get along with other reptiles. Ensure that your gecko has its hide box and make sure there is no competition for hiding spots, food, or basking areas.
3. African Fat-Tailed Gecko
African fat-tailed geckos are another excellent option to consider. They share similar environmental requirements to bearded dragons and tend to cohabitate well with them. Provide multiple hides and enough food to prevent any competition.
Reptiles That Cannot Live with a Bearded Dragon
While there are some reptiles that can live with bearded dragons, there are also some that are not compatible due to differing dietary and environmental needs. Here are some reptiles that should not be housed with bearded dragons:
1. Chameleons
Chameleons require specific environmental conditions and a specific diet, which is vastly different from the bearded dragon. Co-habitation can lead to aggression due to their territorial nature.
2. Green Iguanas
Green iguanas are much larger than bearded dragons, and they require different terrarium conditions and a different diet. They can also be aggressive, making cohabitation unsafe.
In Conclusion
In summary, bearded dragons can live with other reptiles as long as the terrarium conditions, dietary needs, and temperament of both reptiles are taken into consideration. Rankin’s dragons, leopard geckos, and African fat-tailed geckos make great companions for a bearded dragon. Chameleons and green iguanas should not be housed with bearded dragons due to their differing needs and aggressive tendencies.