Your 1 Year Old Bearded Dragon: Everything You Need to Know

Congratulations on becoming a proud owner of a 1 year old bearded dragon! These colorful reptiles make for great pets with their friendly personalities and low-maintenance lifestyles. However, as with any pet, caring for a bearded dragon requires proper knowledge to ensure they’re living their best lives.

A Quick Overview of Bearded Dragons

Bearded dragons are native to Australia and are part of the lizard family. They receive their unique name from the spiky beard-like scales under their chins. In the wild, they can grow up to 24 inches in length and can live up to 15 years with proper care.

Enclosure Needs

It’s crucial to provide your bearded dragon with a proper enclosure that’s big enough for them to move around freely. A 40-gallon tank is recommended for an adult bearded dragon, while a 20-gallon tank is sufficient for a 1-year-old. Make sure to line the bottom of the tank with newspaper or reptile carpet to make cleaning easier.

Temperature and Lighting

As a cold-blooded animal, bearded dragons require specific environmental conditions to thrive. The enclosure must have a temperature gradient with a basking spot of 95-110 degrees Fahrenheit and a cooler side of 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s also important to provide your bearded dragon with a UVB light source to mimic the natural sunlight they would receive in the wild. An optimal light cycle is 12 hours on and 12 hours off.

Diet

Bearded dragons are omnivores, meaning they eat both plant and animal matter. A 1-year-old bearded dragon should be fed a diet consisting of 80% insects and 20% vegetation. Good vegetable choices include collard greens, mustard greens, and turnip greens. Avoid feeding them spinach or lettuce as they contain high amounts of oxalates, which can lead to health problems.

Health and Behavior

It’s important to monitor your bearded dragon’s health and behavior regularly. Any changes in appetite, behavior, or appearance may indicate an underlying health problem. Some common health issues in bearded dragons include metabolic bone disease, impaction, and respiratory infections. Be sure to take your dragon to a reptile veterinarian regularly to ensure they’re healthy and happy.

Conclusion

Caring for a 1 year old bearded dragon may seem daunting at first, but with the proper knowledge and resources, it can be an enjoyable experience for both you and your pet. Remember to provide them with a suitable enclosure, proper temperature and lighting, a well-balanced diet, and regular health check-ups. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful bearded dragon owner!