When it comes to housing for a bearded dragon, there are several key points to consider:
• Size: Bearded dragons need a large terrarium – at least 120 x 60 cm (48×24 in) – to give them plenty of space to move around. Additionally, the terrarium should be tall, around 60 cm (24 in) in height.
• Substrate: Bearded dragons need a non-toxic substrate, such as sand, or newspaper and paper towels. Whichever substrate you choose, make sure to check it regularly for signs of infectious organisms such as bacteria and parasites, and replace it as needed.
In very hot climates, you may need to provide a more heat resistant option, such as tile, to keep it dry and cool.
• Other additions: Bearded dragons need large rocks and branches for basking and thermoregulation, as well as plenty of hiding places. Live plants are not recommended because they may draw insects away from your pet’s food source.
• Temperature: Bearded dragons need ambient temperatures between 75-90 degrees Fahrenheit, with a basking spot around 105-110 degrees. To maintain the proper temperature, you will need an appropriate UV light for the temperatures, with a full spectrum UVB bulb for 12-14 hours per day.
• Humidity: Bearded dragons thrive in a humidity level between 40%-50%. To help maintain humidity, you can mist the enclosure daily with lukewarm water.
• Cleaning: Make sure to clean the enclosure regularly and check it for mold, bacteria, or parasites. Additionally, clean any basking surfaces regularly to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
In summary, when setting up an appropriate enclosure for a bearded dragon, consider the size of the terrarium, the type of substrate, the items for basking and thermoregulation, the temperature, the humidity, and the cleaning schedule.
Having a well-maintained habitat with all of these points covered is essential for bearded dragon health.
Do bearded dragons have to be in a glass enclosure?
Bearded dragons can be kept in either a glass enclosure or a mesh enclosure. Glass enclosures have some advantages compared to mesh enclosures in that they can help keep the humidity and temperatures higher than mesh enclosures, which is important for bearded dragons who like a warm and slightly humid environment.
Furthermore, since they are easy to clean, many first-time bearded dragon owners favor glass enclosures. However, mesh enclosures offer much more space and opportunities for the dragon to explore and can also help keep air circulating better.
Ultimately, it is up to the individual owner to decide which type of enclosure is best for the dragon. Whichever the case, it is important that the enclosure is well maintained, spacious, secure, and able to provide a safe and healthy environment with adequate ventilation.
What should you not put in a bearded dragon tank?
It’s important to make sure that any items you add to your bearded dragon tank are appropriate and beneficial for your scaly friend. Be sure to avoid the following items in your bearded dragon tank:
– Substrates such as gravel or sand, as these can cause impaction if ingested by your bearded dragon.
– Heat rocks, as these can become too hot for your bearded dragon and lead to serious burns or other injuries.
– Have two or more dragons in the same tank, as bearded dragons are solitary creatures and territorial disputes between them can lead to serious injuries.
– Excess bark, as this can lead to respiratory issues in your bearded dragon if they are exposed to it too often.
– Toxic plants, as these can be harmful to the health of your bearded dragon and do not provide any benefits.
– Chemicals, as these can be extremely toxic to your bearded dragon if ingested or inhaled.
– Unsecured Decorations such as rocks, driftwood and branches, as these can fall and potentially injure or even kill your bearded dragon.
Can you keep a bearded dragon in a plastic tub?
Yes, you can keep a bearded dragon in a plastic tub so long as it meets the needs of the animal. The plastic tub needs to be the right size and contain everything the bearded dragon needs to stay healthy.
The plastic tub should be at least twice the size of the bearded dragon and be large enough to allow the dragon to move around and explore. It’s important to keep the right temperature in the plastic tub, as this is integral to the well-being of the bearded dragon.
A basking spot should be easily accessible and the surrounding temperature should not be too hot or too cold. Generally, an enclosure for a bearded dragon should be about 80°F-90°F. Additionally, the plastic tub should be easy to clean and disinfect, and it should have air vents or some kind of good air circulation.
The plastic tub should also include some sort of habitat, like rocks, plants, and branches, to provide the bearded dragon with stimulation. A UVB bulb should be attached to a hood or fixture and placed so it can be directly in the path of the dragon for about 8-12 hours a day.
Furthermore, a water dish with fresh, clean water must also be replenished regularly.
What do I need for bearded dragon setup?
When setting up a home for your bearded dragon, there are several essential items you should have. First and foremost, you will need a tank that is at least 20 gallons (40-50 is preferable). The tank should come with a strong lid to prevent your bearded dragon from escaping, and provide adequate support for any decorations and objects you will be adding.
Inside the tank you should provide 1-2 cozy hiding spots for your beardie, as well as a thick layer of substrate at the bottom of the tank. A good substrate choice for bearded dragons is reptile carpet, though other bedding materials can also be used.
Next, you need to add specific lighting and temperature set ups for a bearded dragon tank. Heating is necessary for the health of your dragon, so you will need a basking light that provides a basking spot between 95-110F and a UVB light to give your dragon the necessary exposure to vitamin D3.
At night, make sure the tank temperature stays between 70-75F.
You should also provide a variety of items in the tank that make it more recreational and interesting, such as logs, rocks, and plants. Finally, you will need a bowl for water, which is important for hydration and to make sure that your dragon gets the moisture it needs.
It’s also important to make sure that your bearded dragon has vitamins and calcium supplements available in it’s diet, as well as a varied range of insects as it’s main food source.
How do I keep my bearded dragon happy?
First, provide a proper habitat. The ideal environment for a bearded dragon will include a mix of various temperatures and humidity levels, as well as plenty of light and space. Your bearded dragon should have a terrarium that is at least 75-90 gallons.
The enclosure should be equipped with a variety of climbing and hiding surfaces, as well as a good UVB light source to promote healthy metabolic processes and regulate digestion. Additionally, it is important to maintain proper nutrition.
Feed your bearded dragon crickets, mealworms, dubia roaches, and other insects. Be sure to dust prey items with a high quality vitamin/mineral supplement and offer fresh veggies such as collard greens, mustard greens, dandelion greens, endives, squash, and other daily.
Finally, be sure to provide your bearded dragon with regular socialization and playtime. Regularly take your dragon out of their enclosure to spend time with you, exercise, and explore. With these simple tips, you can make sure your bearded dragon is as healthy and happy as possible.
Can a bearded dragon live in a screen cage?
Yes, bearded dragons can live in a screen cage. Screen cages offer many advantages for bearded dragons because of the increased air flow and visibility. This allows the dragon to take in more natural sunlight, potentially limiting the need for additional artificial lighting while providing an unrestricted view of their habitat.
Screen cages can also provide better ventilation than many other types of enclosures, offering an ideal environment for bearded dragons. However, there are some considerations that must be taken into account before placing a bearded dragon in a screen cage.
The mesh openings must be narrow enough that the dragon cannot escape or become stuck in the mesh, and it should contain items that are sturdy enough that the dragon cannot chew their way out or to potentially harm themselves.
Additionally, the screen cage should be placed away from any other pets or small children to limit the chances of the dragon becoming stressed or injured.
What do bearded dragons do all day?
Bearded dragons, also known as Pogonas, are reptiles native to Australia. During the day, they may bask in the sun on rocks or logs, but they may also enjoy snoozing in the cool of their cages. Since they live in extremely warm climates, they need to regulate their body temperature.
When they need to warm up, they will climb onto rocks or logs and bask in the sun, and when they need to cool down, they can retreat to a cooler spot or even burrow in the loose substrate of their enclosure.
During the day, they participate in many other activities. They can be quite active and enjoy exploring their enclosure, climbing onto branches and rocks, and hunting for the occasional small insect that may wander in.
Bearded dragons love interaction with their humans and are most active in the morning and evening. They can also be seen doing dragon push-ups and head-bobbing at their owners.
Bearded dragons also look for and enjoy a variety of plants to eat. An occasional treat of fruit can also add some variety, though you must be careful not to feed too much of it. Bearded dragons need a variety of foods that provide essential vitamins and minerals for their growth, such as dark leafy greens, insects, and other protein sources.
Generally speaking, bearded dragons are active during the day and sleep at night. However, exact activity patterns may vary depending on the individual dragon and its enclosure.
Do Beardies like direct sunlight?
Bearded Dragons, or Beardies, do enjoy direct sunlight, but should not be exposed to it for too long to avoid over-exposure and sunburn. Many owners ensure their pet has enough daily exposure to UVB light, either through a bulb or outdoor time, to keep it healthy and happy.
A high-quality reptile light bulb should be used for daily exposure for 14–16 hours a day, and must be kept close enough to the pets enclosure to ensure the UVB rays are strong enough to reach them without being blocked by the glass or mesh.
For outdoor exposure, it is important to take caution to ensure the Beardie will not be exposed too long and is not in danger from predators, too much heat, or increased stress. A good way to achieve this is to create a secure habitat for them to explore in for short periods of time, such as a balcony or an outdoor terrarium; always keeping an eye on the temperature and humidity.
Additionally, shade and retreat structures should be provided to ensure their safety and comfort, as well as to encourage natural behavior.
Overall, while it is important to give Beardies occasional exposure to direct sunlight, it should not be done in excess, and should be monitored closely. With the right precautions and careful precaution, Beardies can enjoy time in the sun and reap the health benefits of adequate UVB light.