Bearded dragons are often a favorite choice of reptile for many. Their dragonesque appearance, larger-than-life personalities, and silly behaviors draw people to them. Often, they are marketed as beginner pets in stores across the nation. However, this isn't really true. Read below to find out more about these awesome creatures!
What are Bearded Dragons?
Bearded dragons are native to eastern and central Australia. They can be found in a variety of habitats, including semiarid desert, scrublands, and dry forests. They earned their name from their spiky, expandable throat pouch that can look very much like a beard, especially when it darkens to black. They use their beard to communicate discomfort, anger, or dominance. It can also be due to stress, illness, or mating display.
Bearded dragons are diurnal, meaning that they are most active during the day. They love to bask and are commonly found sunbathing on everything from rocks and fallen branches to fenceposts and picnic tables. This is why it's important to provide a basking source! Bearded dragons are terrestrial, meaning they live on the ground, but they are also skilled at climbing and burrowing. This means that they need both substrate that is perfect for digging as well as climbing elements within their enclosure.
Bearded dragons are omnivorous, so aside from munching a variety of vegetation, they mostly prey upon insects, with the occasional small rodent or lizard. They need salads containing greens and other staple vegetation as well as live insects, preferably Dubia Roaches or Crickets that are gut-loaded.
Bearded dragons tend to be 18″-24″ (45-61 cm) long from snout to tail. They have an average lifespan of 10-15 years, although they are capable of living for 20 years or longer! They are usually sexually mature and reach their full length at 1-2 years old.
What do I need for my Bearded Dragon?
Bearded dragons require a lot of room for their size. While smaller enclosures, like a 40-gallon tank, are okay for juveniles, they grow rather quickly. The minimum requirement size of a Bearded Dragon enclosure is 4'L x 2'W x 2'H with a mesh top. The best size for them is a 6’L x 2’W x 2’H enclosure. They also have a lot of requirements to thrive in your care. See the graphics included on our page to get started exploring Bearded Dragon Care!