Bearded dragons like to explore their environment, so providing them with toys and items to interact with is a great way to keep them entertained. For example, they can really enjoy small objects like paper towel rolls, chewable sticks, paper bags, cardboard boxes, and wood pieces.
You can also provide them with safe, reptile-appropriate climbing toys that make fantastic naturalistic additions to their enclosure. These could include ladders, ropes, hammocks, rocky ledges, and hide boxes that allow them to explore, hide, and play.
Generally, when choosing toys, opt for items that provide an interesting texture, are light enough for them to lift, and can easily be changed or replaced. Additionally, offering different items and rearranging their environment on a regular basis encourages further exploration and prevents boredom.
Just like any other pet, it is important to monitor your dragon while they are playing in order to ensure they stay safe.
How do I make my bearded dragon happy?
Making your bearded dragon happy is dependent on providing them with the appropriate environment, diet, and overall care, and it can be straightforward to do so.
To create a healthy environment for your bearded dragon, you will need to provide them with a terrarium or tank that is large enough to roam around and move freely. Make sure the environment is not too hot or too cold, and that proper lighting and humidity levels have been set up.
Feeding your bearded dragon a healthy diet is also important. Provide them with a variety of live insects and greens to fulfill their dietary needs. Make sure to give them calcium and vitamin supplements on a regular basis and feed them fresh food every day.
Lastly, to make your bearded dragon happy, you need to dedicate time to handle and bond with them. Every day, take some time to let them crawl around outside of their terrarium, play games and even give them baths.
Bearded dragons are inquisitive and active animals, so keeping them stimulated and engaged is key to making them happy.
By making the right care choices and providing your bearded dragon with a comfortable and safe environment, you can ensure they live a long and happy life.
What plants can I put in with my bearded dragon?
When selecting plants for a bearded dragon terrarium, it is important to choose non-toxic varieties that can tolerate moderate-to-high levels of heat and humidity. Some safe plants for beardies include Sansevieria trifasciata (snake plant), Aloe vera, Spider plant, False aralia, Dwarf Umbrella tree (Schefflera arboricola), and Creeping fig (Ficus pumila).
These plants can all withstand the humidity and heat that bearded dragons require, as well as provide the additional benefit of helping to keep the terrarium’s environment clean. Additionally, you could consider live plants with artificial lighting such as Pothos or other various types of Philodendron.
Bearded dragons don’t naturally consume plants, however they may nibble on them occasionally. If your beardie does show interest in a plant, take extra precautions with plant care and fertilizing to avoid possible accidental ingestion.
How often should you handle a bearded dragon?
You should handle your bearded dragon as often as it is comfortable with. Bearded dragons often become stressed when handled for too long or in an unfamiliar setting. It is best to start slowly and provide your dragon with plenty of time to get used to you and your behavior.
Always supervise your children when they are handling your dragon. A general rule of thumb is to never handle your dragon for more than 15 minutes a day. Whenever you handle your dragon, make sure to provide a secure grip and maintain a gentle but firm touch.
If your dragon shows any signs of discomfort, put it down and allow it to rest.
Are there toys for bearded dragons?
Yes, there are toys available for bearded dragons. Bearded dragons can benefit from opportunities to explore and interact with their environment, so providing them with toys is an excellent way to provide them with mental stimulation.
To give your bearded dragon the best playtime, look for enrichment items like climbing structures, hammocks, ladders, tunnels and hide spots. These allow them to climb and explore, which can be mentally stimulating for them.
It is important to check with your vet before providing your bearded dragon with any new toys, as different species of bearded dragons can have different needs. Additionally, always supervise your bearded dragon when they are playing with any of their toys to make sure that they are safe and not ingesting any materials that could be potentially hazardous.
Do Beardies watch TV?
Bearded Dragons, also known as Beardies, can watch TV but it depends on their preference and their environment. Generally, they can observe the movement on the screen and may or may not react to it depending upon whether or not it interests them.
While some may respond positively and show a slight interest, others may not. It is believed that bearded dragons can recognize certain familiar images and respond positively to them, such as facial features and other types of imagery, including cartoons and educational videos.
However, long viewing periods are not generally recommended as too much exposure to anything can affect their stress levels and overall health. Consequently, it is important to provide them with plenty of other kinds of entertainment and stimulation in their environment, such as live plants, fake caves and rocks for climbing, proper humidity and temperature control, etc.
Additionally, if you do decide to allow them to have exposure to the television keep a close eye to observe their reaction and to set limits as necessary.
Why does my bearded dragon stare at the TV?
Your bearded dragon may be staring at the TV because they believe that they are looking at something alive. Your pet may be trying to interact with the moving pictures the same way they interact with other living things.
They may perceive the TV as an environmental stimulation or some form of prey. Bearded dragons have keen eyesight, and they can often recognize shapes, colors and motion on a television screen. Additionally, if the program or show on the TV has a lot of movement and is visually stimulating they could try to watch it as if its a part of their habitat.
It is important to note that while it is likely normal behavior for a bearded dragon to monitor their environment and stare at the TV, it could also be a sign of stress or boredom. If your pet consistently stares at the TV, it may be a good idea to provide them with other viewing options or interactive activities.