Lizards are super interesting pets to own and there are plenty of different types of lizards that can make great pets. There are chameleons, anoles and geckos that are all available to keep in captivity. However, they all require different husbandry depending on where in the world they originate from.
Let’s have a look at the proper environment for a Bearded Dragon and how to provide them with the best enclosure in order for them to be a happy and healthy lizard.
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What is a Bearded Dragon?
The bearded dragon originates from Australia and is really popular in the reptile community due to their friendly and docile nature. Bearded dragons get their name from the spikes found beneath their throat; which can often puff up and change colour depending on their mood – especially if they’re mating or feel threatened.
If housed correctly and the best care is given to a bearded dragon, they can live over 15 years in captivity.
How to keep a bearded dragon in captivity
Bearded dragons are a terrestrial species, meaning that they spend the majority of the time on the ground. They are opposite to some lizards which are known as arboreal. This means that they spend their time exploring and climbing through the trees.
Enclosure
With beardies being terrestrial, they require a vivarium which has more width than height. This gives them plenty of opportunity to explore their enclosure at a ground level. There would be no point in providing a beardie with a tall enclosure, as this aerial space would not be utilised. Common enclosures include wooden or glass vivariums.
Heating
As with any reptile, beardies require heat in order to regulate their own body temperatures. They should be provided with a warm and a cool end of the enclosure, as well as a spot for basking under a heat lamp.
The warm end of the enclosure should remain between 35 – 45 degrees celsius, allowing the beardie to bask underneath the heat lamp. The cooler end should not be below 25 degrees celsius and can vary up to 30 degrees celsius.
Ensure that the temperature is regularly checked and is controlled through a thermostat.
In order for beardies to metabolise and utilise calcium that they have gained from their diet, a UVB bulb is needed. Calcium is required to maintain a healthy bone structure. A UVB bulb should be changed periodically, as advised by the manufacturer, as it can diminish over time – usually, they need annual replacement.
Substrate
A substrate provides a base for the enclosure and there are some substrates that are more favourable over others. Do plenty of research to see what would work best for you and your beardie. However, do not use a substrate that is easily swallowed, as this offers the risk of a blockage. Two of the most popular include:
Coconut coir
This is a sustainable and eco-friendly option for reptile enclosures. It is made from coconut husk and if it is accidentally ingested, can often pass through the digestive system. However, always speak to your veterinary surgeon if you think that your beardie has eaten some substrate.
Coconut coir is also easy to clean and maintain. It can also hold moisture, which can aid the beardie when they shed their skin.
Wooden pellets
This is also an eco friendly option if purchased from a sustainable source. Wooden pellets are absorbable, which makes cleaning the enclosure easier. They are difficult for a beardie to ingest and also allow for digging and burrowing if required.
Hides and stimulation
There should be a variety of different places for a beardie to hide and feel safe and these should be available in both the warmer and the cooler ends of the enclosure. These can include caves, wooden structures and logs.
Plenty of decoration should also be used, including fake or live plants, twigs, branches and rocks. An enclosure should try to replicate a beardie’s natural environment as closely as possible.
A shallow water bowl should also be available and fresh drinking water should be present at all times.
Companionship
Beardie’s do not require a friend in order to be happy. In fact, if you house two males together, you will often see signs of fighting and aggression. In many instances, two males may even fight to the death.
A male and female beardie can be housed together, but nature will take its course so be prepared to look after plenty of beardie babies. Mating can be stressful for both the male and female, so careful consideration should be carried out before deciding to house them together.
Final thoughts on bearded dragon care
Bearded dragons are a great reptile to keep and can make a fantastic ‘beginner’ reptile. However, do not underestimate the care of a beardie. Make sure that their enclosures replicate their natural environment as closely as possible and carry out plenty of research to make sure that a bearded dragon is the right reptile for you.
If you require veterinary care, make sure you know where your closest exotic practice is located. You can always use the VetHelpDirect vet locator and filter the results to include exotic pets.
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