Bearded Dragon Care Sheet
This guide serves as a brief introduction to caring for bearded dragons. It is essential to conduct further research and consult with a veterinarian or veterinary nurse before acquiring a bearded dragon as a pet. The most commonly kept species of bearded dragon as a pet is the Inland Bearded Dragon or Pogona vitticeps.
Natural Environment:
Inland Bearded Dragons are native to the arid woodlands and deserts of central Australia. They spend much of their waking hours basking on rocks, foraging for food such as insects, small lizards, and mammals, fruit, flowers, and other plant material during the day time. During extreme heat, they burrow underground. They are diurnal and omnivorous.
Physical Characteristics:
Bearded Dragons have a flattened appearance with spines on the throat, sides of the head, and sides of the body. The 'beard' is the skin in the throat region that they can flare out when threatened or territorial. Their heads are wedge-shaped, and they have a tail almost as long as their body. Bearded Dragons are highly variable in color. Males can be distinguished from females by their larger heads, darker beards, and larger femoral pores.
Diet
A bearded dragon's diet should consist of a variety of live insects, vegetables, and fruits. Insects should make up the majority of their diet, as they are rich in protein and help support their growth and development. However, it is important to offer a variety of insects to ensure they receive a range of nutrients. For example, crickets are high in protein but low in calcium, while dubia roaches are a good source of calcium.
In addition to insects, bearded dragons require a mix of vegetables and fruits to ensure a balanced diet. Vegetables should make up about 20-30% of their diet, and fruits should be given as a treat in small amounts. Some good options for vegetables include collard greens, mustard greens, dandelion greens, and butternut squash. Fruits like blueberries, strawberries, and apples are good choices.
To prevent nutritional deficiencies, it is important to dust the live insects with calcium and vitamin D3 supplements. Be sure to follow the instructions on the supplement package for dosage and frequency.
Additionally, bearded dragons should have access to fresh water at all times. They will not drink from a water bottle, so a shallow water dish should be provided and changed daily.
Habitat
Bearded dragons need a spacious and comfortable habitat to thrive. The size of the tank depends on the age and size of the dragon. A juvenile bearded dragon can start in a 20-gallon tank, but as they grow, they will require more space. An adult bearded dragon requires a minimum of a 40-gallon tank.
The tank should have a secure lid to prevent escape and keep out predators. The lid should also allow for proper ventilation.
Provide a basking spot with a temperature of 100-110°F and a cooler side with a temperature of 80-85°F. Nighttime temperatures can drop to 70-75°F. Be sure to use a thermometer to monitor the temperature in the tank.
Bearded dragons also need access to a UVB light source for at least 10-12 hours per day. The UVB light should be positioned within 12 inches of the basking spot to ensure proper absorption. The light should be replaced every 6-12 months, as the strength of the UVB output decreases over time.
The habitat should include climbing structures, hiding spots, and a substrate that is safe for bearded dragons. Some good options for substrates include paper towels, reptile carpet, and ceramic tiles. Avoid using sand or loose substrates, as they can cause impaction if ingested.
Water and Humidity
Bearded dragons need access to fresh water at all times. A shallow water dish should be provided, and it should be changed daily. In addition to drinking from the water dish, bearded dragons will also absorb moisture through their skin.
Bearded dragons benefit from a humid environment, so it is important to mist their habitat regularly. A humidity level of 30-40% is ideal. This can be achieved by misting the enclosure with a spray bottle a few times a day, or by adding a humid hide to the habitat.
Light
Bearded dragons require access to UVB light for at least 10-12 hours per day. The UVB light is essential for proper calcium absorption and bone health. Without UVB, bearded dragons can develop metabolic bone disease, which can be life-threatening.
In addition to UVB, they require a basking light to provide heat and mimic the natural sun. The basking light should be positioned over the basking spot and should provide a temperature of 100-110°F.
Proper Handling
Bearded dragons can be docile and make great pets, but it is important to handle them properly to avoid injury and stress. Here are some tips for handling your bearded dragon:
Wash your hands before and after handling your dragon to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Be gentle and approach your dragon slowly to avoid startling them.
Support their body with both hands and avoid picking them up by the tail, as it can cause injury.
Allow them to crawl onto your hand or arm rather than grabbing them.
Avoid squeezing or putting pressure on their body, as it can cause injury.
Never drop your bearded dragon or allow them to fall from a height.
Limit handling to 15-20 minutes at a time to prevent stress and fatigue.
Hygiene
Maintaining a clean habitat is important for the health and well-being of your bearded dragon. Here are some tips for keeping their habitat clean:
Remove any uneaten food or dead insects daily to prevent the growth of bacteria.
Spot clean the habitat as needed, removing any feces or urine.
Deep clean the habitat once a month, removing all decorations and substrate and disinfecting the tank and decorations with a reptile-safe disinfectant.
Wash and disinfect your hands after handling your bearded dragon to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Body Language
Understanding your bearded dragon's body language can help you determine if they are happy, stressed, or sick. Here are some common signs to look for:
A relaxed and calm posture with a visible belly and legs spread out indicates a comfortable and happy dragon.
A dark coloration or black beard may indicate stress or aggression.
A puffed-up beard and gaping mouth may indicate aggression or that they are feeling threatened.
Lethargy, lack of appetite, or unusual behavior may indicate illness or injury.
By monitoring your bearded dragon's body language, you can better understand their needs and address any issues before they become serious.
In conclusion, providing proper care for a bearded dragon requires attention to diet, habitat, temperature, water and humidity, light, proper handling, hygiene, and body language. By following these guidelines and providing a comfortable and stimulating environment, you can ensure your bearded dragon stays healthy and happy.