Did you know that in recent years the ownership of reptiles has risen? It is estimated 3% of all households own at least one reptile.
One type of reptile that has become an increasingly popular pet choice is the bearded dragon. But how do you care for these creatures?
It's certainly not the same as caring for others pets like or dog or cat. Fortunately, taking care of a bearded dragon isn’t too difficult, as long as you understand the basics. Here’s what you need to know about caring for your bearded dragon.
Choose the Right Size Enclosure
Bearded dragons are a type of lizard that originates from Australia. They grow to be about 2 feet long and can live up to 15 years in captivity.
When choosing an enclosure for your bearded dragon, it is important to choose one large enough for them to move around freely. A 20-gallon tank is a good size for a juvenile dragon, while an adult dragon needs a tank of at least 40 gallons.
You will need an even bigger tank if you have more than one dragon. The recommended size for two adult dragons is a 75-gallon tank or larger. These lizards are active animals with plenty of room to explore and exercise their muscles!
Bearded dragons need both vertical and horizontal space to climb, bask and run freely when outside their enclosures or terrariums. You should provide climbing branches for your bearded dragon's enclosure, so they can climb up them and bask in the UV light provided by the lamps above their tanks or terrariums.
Provide the Proper Lighting
Bearded dragons are reptiles that need both UVB and basking lights to stay healthy. UVB light helps dragons to absorb calcium, which is necessary for their bones to stay strong.
The basking lights are needed to provide heat, which helps dragons to digest their food properly. So you want to ensure their area is heated well enough.
A temperature gradient of between 75-95 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for most bearded dragons. It is important to have a separate light for each type of lighting, as UVB light will not penetrate glass or plastic.
Select the Right Substrate
The substrate is the material you put on the bottom of the enclosure for your bearded dragon to walk on. Bearded dragons can be sensitive to some substrates, so choosing one safe for them is essential.
Some good options for substrates include sand, soil, and rocks. Avoid using gravel or sandpaper, as these irritate your dragon’s feet.
A good option to start out with is sand. It is easy to clean and inexpensive. But it is important to note that it may not be safe for all species of bearded dragons.
Some species have been known to eat sand when it gets stuck in their teeth or between their toes. Also, using sand that contains calcium could lead to calcium buildup in their blood vessels and brain (calcium oxalate), which could be fatal if left untreated.
Additionally, you want to provide plenty of hiding places for your beardie; this will help them feel safe and secure in their environment.
Feed Properly
Bearded dragons are omnivores. So they need both animal and plant-based foods to stay healthy.
Offer your dragon a variety of vegetables and insects, such as crickets, dubia mealworms, and dubia hornworms. One of the best types of food to feed your bearded dragon is dubia roaches.
Dubia roaches for bearded dragons help provide a holistic source of nutrients. If you are wondering how many dubia roaches for a bearded dragon, the answer is three to five per day.
The average amount of times to feed your adult bearded dragons is 2-3 times a week. Yet, juveniles should be fed every day or two. Provide calcium supplements as needed to ensure they get all the nutrients they need to stay healthy.
Handle Your Dragon Regularly
Bearded dragons are generally docile creatures that enjoy being handled by their owners. It is essential to handle them regularly so that they become accustomed to it and do not become scared or aggressive when you try to pick them up.
When handling your dragon, be sure to support its entire body so that they feel secure. Don't pick up your bearded dragon by its tail, as it can cause severe damage and even death. Instead, hold it with one hand under its belly and the other around its back legs.
Clean Regularly
Bearded dragons can carry parasites that can be spread to other animals and humans, so it’s important to keep their habitats clean and free from bacteria or disease-causing organisms.
Clean their enclosure at least once a week with hot water and a mild soap or bleach solution—make sure it’s thoroughly rinsed before returning them to the habitat!
Also, take time each week to inspect your beardie for any signs of illness or injury that may have occurred since the last cleaning session.
Give Your Bearded Dragon the Best Care Possible
Caring for a bearded dragon may seem daunting at first, but once you get into the rhythm of things, it can become quite simple! You want to provide your beardie with the right environment, proper diet, and a regular feeding schedule.
By doing this, you can rest assured that your pet will stay healthy and happy for years to come! Remember - knowledge is vital for taking good care of your reptilian friend!
A little research goes a long way to ensuring that your pet reptile enjoys the best life possible! If you want to provide your bearded dragon with food that is good for them, shop at Dubi Deli.