The Ultimate Guide to Bearded Dragons

/ Reptiles / By

bearded-dragon-essentials

In recent years, bearded dragons, scientifically referred to as Pogona, have soared in popularity, and it’s not hard to see why. Originating from the arid and rocky landscapes of Australia, these reptiles boast a fascinating blend of striking looks, playful demeanor, and relatively straightforward care requirements, making them a top choice for pet enthusiasts around the world.

Unlike the intimidating impression their name might suggest, bearded dragons are anything but fearsome. Their moniker “bearded” stems from the unique way they can puff and darken the skin under their throats, resembling a beard. This is particularly evident when they feel threatened or during specific social interactions.

Known for their triangular heads, spiky scales, and a plethora of colors and patterns, these reptiles come in various morphs, each more intriguing than the last. Their calm and inquisitive nature, combined with their relatively modest size, make them perfect for both novice and experienced reptile keepers.

Bearded dragons are not only captivating in appearance but also engage in a variety of intriguing behaviors. From arm-waving greetings to their fascinating head bobs, they never cease to entertain and amaze their owners.

The appeal of the bearded dragon goes beyond their looks and behaviors. Their potential to form a bond with their owners sets them apart from many other reptiles. It’s not uncommon for a “beardie” to enjoy lounging on their owner’s shoulder or exploring the living room under supervision, adding a touch of nature’s wonder to everyday life.

Bearded Dragon Basics

Origin and Natural Habitat

Bearded dragons hail from the vast expanse of Australia, predominantly the central regions. Their natural environment is characterized by arid woodlands, deserts, and scrublands. Being desert dwellers, bearded dragons are well adapted to handle high temperatures and have developed behaviors and physical features that assist them in coping with their dry surroundings. For instance, they are diurnal, which means they are active during the day and can be often found basking under the sun atop rocks or in sandy areas, soaking up the warmth. At night, they retreat to cooler underground burrows to maintain their body temperature.

Anatomy and Distinguishing Features

The anatomy of the bearded dragon is a marvel of evolution, finely tuned to its environment:

  • Third Eye: One of the most fascinating aspects of bearded dragon anatomy is the parietal eye, often called the “third eye.” This small, photosensitive spot is located on the top of their head and cannot form images like the other two eyes. Instead, it perceives changes in light, assisting them in detecting predators from above, like birds.
  • Teeth: Bearded dragons have a set of small, sharp teeth that line their jaws. Unlike mammals, they don’t chew their food extensively. Their teeth are primarily designed for gripping and tearing. It’s worth noting that, while they can bite when threatened, they are generally not aggressive towards humans.
  • Tail: Their robust, muscular tail is not only an essential tool for balance but also serves as a defensive weapon. Unlike some other lizards, bearded dragons do not have the ability to drop or regrow their tails, so it’s vital to handle them with care.
  • Claws: Bearded dragons have well-defined claws on each of their four limbs. These claws are not just for self-defense but also come in handy for digging, climbing, and gripping surfaces.

Different Species and Types of Bearded Dragons

The term “bearded dragon” refers to the genus Pogona, which comprises several different species. The most commonly known and kept as a pet is the Pogona vitticeps, often called the Central or Inland Bearded Dragon. Here are a few species and types:

  • Central Bearded Dragon (Pogona vitticeps): As mentioned, this is the most popular species in the pet trade. They have a broad distribution in Australia and are known for their wide range of colors and patterns, referred to as “morphs.”
  • Eastern Bearded Dragon (Pogona barbata): Found along the eastern coast of Australia, they are slightly larger than their central counterparts and have a more pronounced “beard.”
  • Dwarf Bearded Dragon (Pogona minor): Native to Western Australia, this species is smaller in size. Their preferred habitat includes scrublands and coastal dunes.
  • Rankin’s Bearded Dragon (Pogona henrylawsoni): Another smaller species, Rankin’s bearded dragon is less common in the pet trade but is known for its more docile nature.

There are several other species under the Pogona genus, but the ones mentioned are among the most recognizable. Each species has unique attributes and care requirements, but all share the general characteristics that make bearded dragons so captivating.

Appearance and Morphs

Common Colors

Bearded dragons display a spectacular array of colors, each giving a unique aesthetic appeal. Here’s a look at some of the more common colors:

  • Red: Red bearded dragons can range from a bright fiery hue to a deep rust or brick color. They are highly sought after for their striking appearance.
  • Black: While not entirely black, these dragons display dark gray to almost charcoal tones. They might exhibit this color when they are stressed, cold, or during certain displays, like a black beard.
  • White: Often referred to as “snow” or “leucistic,” these dragons are not albinos but have a pale, whitish appearance throughout their body.
  • Orange: These dragons have a bright, vibrant orange hue, making them a favorite among many enthusiasts.
  • Green: It’s a misconception that there are green bearded dragons. What some might perceive as green is usually a shade of olive or a grayish tone.
  • Blue: Like green, there aren’t truly blue bearded dragons. The term often describes dragons with a slight bluish hue or undertone, especially under specific lighting.

Morph Variations

The world of bearded dragon morphs is vast and continually evolving as breeders experiment and produce new variations. Here are some of the most popular:

  • Fancy: This is more of a general term used in the pet trade to describe dragons that aren’t the standard wild type. They can have various colors and patterns.
  • Leatherback: These dragons have reduced or smaller scales, giving their skin a smoother appearance.
  • Zero: A type of bearded dragon that lacks patterns and colors. They are primarily a uniform gray or white.
  • Silkback (or Silkie): These dragons are almost scale-less, resulting in very smooth skin. They require more specialized care due to their delicate skin.
  • Paradox: These dragons display random patches of colors or patterns that don’t fit their primary morph. It’s like nature’s version of tie-dye on a dragon.

Special Morphs

  • Red Monster: A specific line of bearded dragons that displays intensely bright red colors. Their vibrancy and hue make them stand out spectacularly.
  • Rainbow Blue: A rarer morph characterized by a mix of pastel colors with a hint of bluish undertones. As the name suggests, they have an enchanting, multi-colored appearance.

Size: From Baby to Juvenile to Full-grown/Adult

Bearded dragons, like all creatures, start small and grow as they age:

  • Baby: Newly hatched bearded dragons are tiny, measuring about 3 to 4 inches in length. They grow rapidly in the first few months of life.
  • Juvenile: At around 5 to 8 months of age, they enter their juvenile stage. By this time, they might be anywhere from 10 to 16 inches long. This period is crucial for their development, and proper nutrition is vital.
  • Full-grown/Adult: Once they hit the age of 12 to 18 months, bearded dragons are considered adults. An average adult bearded dragon can range from 18 to 24 inches in length, with some individuals exceeding this. The size can also vary based on their specific species and genetic factors.

Essential Care Guide

Diet and Feeding

One of the most crucial aspects of caring for a bearded dragon is providing a balanced diet. Their dietary needs change as they grow, evolving from a primarily insect-based diet as babies to a more herbivorous one as adults.

What do they eat?

Fruits: Bearded dragons enjoy a variety of fruits in their diet. Some of their favorites include apples, strawberries, melon, and berries. However, fruits should be given in moderation as a treat due to their sugar content.

Veggies: Vegetables should form a significant portion of an adult bearded dragon’s diet. Some excellent choices are collard greens, mustard greens, bell peppers, and squash. Always opt for fresh and organic veggies when possible.

Insects: Insects are a primary protein source, especially for younger bearded dragons. Some common choices are crickets, mealworms, and roaches. Always ensure that the insects are appropriately sized, meaning they shouldn’t be larger than the space between the dragon’s eyes.

How often to feed?

  • Babies: They have an insatiable appetite and should be fed 2-3 times a day. Their diet should be about 80% insects and 20% plant-based.
  • Juveniles (5-8 months): Feed them once or twice a day, comprising 50% insects and 50% plant-based foods.
  • Adults (Over 18 months): Adults can be fed once a day or even once every two days. Their diet should majorly be 80% plant-based and 20% insects.

Feeding Schedule and Food Chart

Having a set feeding schedule and a food chart can be beneficial to ensure your dragon gets a balanced diet. Here’s a basic outline:

Morning:

  • Fresh veggies left in the enclosure for grazing throughout the day.

Midday:

  • Insects (according to age-related requirements)

Late Afternoon/Early Evening:

  • Occasional fruits as treats (1-2 times a week).

Food Chart: Creating a weekly food chart can help diversify the dragon’s diet. For example:

  • Monday: Crickets + Collard Greens
  • Tuesday: Mealworms + Bell Peppers
  • Wednesday: Roaches + Mustard Greens
  • Thursday: Crickets + Squash … and so on.

Foods to Avoid

Certain foods can be harmful or offer no nutritional value to bearded dragons. One such food is spinach, which contains oxalates that can bind calcium, making it hard for the dragon to absorb. Other foods to avoid include avocado, rhubarb, and citrus fruits. Always research before introducing a new food item to your dragon’s diet.

Habitat and Environment

Ideal Tank/Enclosure Size

Bearded dragons require a spacious environment to roam, bask, and hide.

  • Babies (up to 5 months): A 20-gallon tank is sufficient.
  • Juveniles (5-12 months): Upgrade to a 40-gallon tank.
  • Adults (12+ months): A minimum of a 75 to 120-gallon tank.

Example: Exo Terra AllGlass Terrarium

Tank Setup and Decor Ideas

Creative and DIY Ideas:

  1. Naturalistic Setup: Incorporate real plants, branches, and rocks to mimic their natural habitat.
  2. Desert Oasis: Use sandy substrates, cacti (non-spiky), and desert-themed backgrounds.
  3. Floating Shelves: Create different levels using floating shelves for them to climb and bask.
  4. DIY Caves: Use non-toxic clay or plastic containers to make hideouts.

Example: Zilla Reptile Décor Malaysian Driftwood

Appropriate Substrate

Recommended Substrates:

  1. Reptile Carpet: Easy to clean and reduces the risk of impaction.
  2. Newspaper or Paper Towels: Cheap, easy to replace, and clean.
  3. Tile: Naturally files their nails and is easy to sanitize.

Avoid:

  • Loose substrates like sand or wood shavings, as they can lead to impaction if ingested.

Example: Zoo Med Reptile Cage Carpet

Temperature and Lighting Needs

  1. UVB Light: Crucial for calcium metabolism and bone health. The bulb should span at least 2/3 of the tank’s length. Replace every 6-12 months.
  2. Heat Lamp: Provides a basking spot with temperatures between 95°F – 110°F. The cooler end should be between 75°F – 85°F.
  3. Ceramic Heat Emitters: For nighttime temperature maintenance without light disturbance.

Example: REPTI ZOO Reptile Light Fixture

Humidity Requirements

Bearded dragons thrive in low humidity environments between 20% – 40%. Overly humid conditions can lead to respiratory infections. Use a hygrometer to monitor levels.

Example: Zoo Med Labs Digital Thermometer Humidity Gauge

Handling and Behavior

Safe Handling Practices:

  1. Approach Slowly: Approach from the side, not from above to avoid looking like a predator.
  2. Support the Body: Ensure you support their legs and belly.
  3. Regular Interaction: Handle them regularly, but limit sessions to 10-15 minutes to reduce stress.

Common Behaviors:

  • Waving: Often a sign of submission or recognition.
  • Head Bobbing: A dominance or mating behavior.
  • Puffing Up: An attempt to look bigger, either due to a perceived threat or during deep breaths/stretching.

Signs of a Stressed or Angry Bearded Dragon:

  1. Black Beard: Indicative of fear, anger, or discomfort.
  2. Gaping Mouth: Can be a sign of feeling threatened.
  3. Hissing: A rare and clear sign of distress or anger.

Always remember, while bearded dragons can be handled and interacted with, recognizing and respecting their comfort and boundaries is essential.

Health and Wellness

Common Diseases and Illnesses

  1. Mouth Rot (Stomatitis):
    • Symptoms: Swollen, discolored gums, and cheesy deposits in the mouth.
    • Treatment: Needs veterinary attention. The vet may clean the mouth and prescribe antibiotics.
    • Prevention: Regular mouth checks and maintaining cleanliness in the enclosure.

Veterinary Oral Care Solution

  1. Tail Rot:
    • Symptoms: Darkening of the tail, softness, or a foul smell.
    • Treatment: Immediate veterinary care. Advanced cases might need amputation.
    • Prevention: Ensure the habitat is clean and dry.
  2. Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD):
    • Symptoms: Soft or deformed bones, tremors, or dragging limbs.
    • Treatment: Veterinary care, improved diet with calcium and vitamin D3, and proper UVB lighting.
    • Prevention: Adequate UVB exposure and a balanced diet.

ReptiCalcium with D3

  1. Yellow Fungus:
    • Symptoms: Yellow, brown, or gray crusty scales, lesions, or scabbing.
    • Treatment: Veterinary consultation, antifungal medications, and topical treatments.
    • Prevention: Regular cleaning and disinfecting of the enclosure.

Reptile Wound-Healing Aid

Shedding: What to Expect and How to Assist

What to Expect:

  • Bearded dragons shed their skin periodically as they grow.
  • Skin becomes dull and eyes might appear bluish.
  • They might become less active or hide more often.

How to Assist:

  1. Baths: Lukewarm baths can help soften the skin.
  2. Humidity: Slightly increasing the humidity can assist the shedding process.
  3. Don’t Pull Off Skin: Never peel off the skin as it can harm the new skin underneath.

Zoo Med Reptile Shed Aid

Brumation: Understanding and Care During Brumation

Understanding:

  • Brumation is a hibernation-like state where bearded dragons become lethargic and might not eat for weeks.
  • It’s a natural process for mature bearded dragons during colder months.

Care During Brumation:

  1. Reduce Food: Gradually decrease their food intake as brumation approaches.
  2. Check Regularly: Even if they’re sleeping, ensure they’re breathing and appear healthy.
  3. Maintain Warmth: Ensure the cool side of their tank doesn’t get too cold.

Signs of a Healthy vs. An Unhealthy Bearded Dragon

Healthy:

  • Bright, alert eyes.
  • Regular growth and weight gain.
  • Consistent eating habits.
  • Regular bowel movements with a well-formed poop chart (brown feces and white urates).

Unhealthy:

  • Sunken, cloudy, or swollen eyes.
  • Stunted growth or weight loss.
  • Loss of appetite.
  • Diarrhea or discolored feces.

Monitoring your bearded dragon’s behavior, eating habits, and physical appearance regularly can help in early detection of potential health issues. Always consult a reptile veterinarian for health concerns and regular check-ups.

Breeding and Lifecycle

How to Determine Gender

  1. Hemipenal Bulges:
    • Males typically have two hemipenal bulges beneath their tails on either side of the vent, while females have one central bulge.
  2. Femoral Pores:
    • Males possess more noticeable femoral pores (small dots) on the underside of their thighs. These pores secrete pheromones during breeding season. Females have them too, but they’re often smaller and less pronounced.
  3. Flashlight Method:
    • This is done by shining a flashlight through the base of the tail in a dark room. In males, you may see the silhouette of the two hemipenes. In females, the absence of these structures.

It’s crucial to handle the dragon gently during this process and ensure not to stress the animal.

Breeding Basics

  1. Preparation:
    • Both male and female should be healthy, mature (at least 18 months old), and of ideal weight.
    • Prior to breeding, a brumation period can help, mimicking their natural winter dormancy.
  2. Introduction:
    • Introduce the female into the male’s enclosure. The male will show courting behaviors like circling, head bobbing, and nuzzling.
  3. Mating:
    • If the female is receptive, the male will climb on her back, biting her neck, and they will mate.
  4. Post-mating Care:
    • Separate them after mating and monitor the female for weight gain and other signs of gravidity (being egg-laden).

Bearded Dragon Eggs: Care and Hatching

  1. Laying Site:
    • Provide a laying box filled with a mixture of moist sand and soil where the female can dig and lay her eggs. It should be damp enough to hold its shape when pressed.
  2. Incubation:
    • Once laid, the eggs should be gently transferred to an incubator. Use a vermiculite or perlite mixture as substrate, keeping it moist but not wet.
    • Maintain an incubation temperature of 80°F to 85°F (27°C to 29°C).

Reptile Egg Incubator

  1. Hatching:
    • In about 55-75 days, baby bearded dragons will emerge from the eggs. They’ll be around 3-4 inches long.
    • Once hatched, place the babies in a separate, clean enclosure with proper heat and UVB light.

Remember that breeding bearded dragons requires in-depth research, adequate resources, and commitment. Always be prepared for the responsibility of caring for the hatchlings.

Cost and Purchase

How Much Does a Bearded Dragon Cost on Average?

The cost of a bearded dragon can vary significantly based on factors such as age, morph, coloration, and where you purchase it. As of my last update in 2022:

  • Standard Bearded Dragon: Ranges from $40 to $100.
  • Special Morphs: Like red monster, rainbow blue, and other unique variations can range from $150 to $500 or even more for particularly rare morphs.

It’s important to note that the initial cost of the bearded dragon is just the beginning. You’ll also need to factor in the cost of the enclosure, lighting, heating, substrate, decor, and ongoing food and vet expenses.

Where to Buy: Pros and Cons

  1. PetSmart:
    • Pros: Convenient locations, often have starter kits for beginners, regular health checks for pets.
    • Cons: The selection might be limited, and staff might not always be specialized in reptile care.
    • Link to PetSmart’s Bearded Dragon Page
  2. Petco:
    • Pros: Wide range of pet supplies available, occasional promotions or discounts.
    • Cons: Like PetSmart, they might have a limited selection of bearded dragons, and expertise can vary by location.
    • Link to Petco’s Reptile Section
  3. Breeders:
    • Pros: Specialized knowledge, often provide detailed lineage information, higher chance of getting a specific morph, and healthier dragons as they’re bred in controlled environments.
    • Cons: Might be more expensive than chain stores, need to ensure the breeder is reputable.
    • Websites like MorphMarket offer a platform for breeders to list their reptiles.

What to Look For When Buying a Bearded Dragon:

  1. Health:
    • Bright, alert eyes.
    • Active and responsive demeanor.
    • Clear nostrils and mouth.
    • A tail and limbs free of wounds or deformities.
  2. Age:
    • Decide whether you want a juvenile (easier to train and bond with) or an adult (size and temperament are already established).
  3. Morph and Coloration:
    • If you’re particular about the morph or coloration, do thorough research and possibly look towards specialized breeders.
  4. Enclosure:
    • Check the cleanliness of the enclosure. It’s a good sign if the store or breeder maintains a clean environment.
  5. Interactions:
    • Watch how the bearded dragon interacts with its environment and handlers. This can give you insights into its health and temperament.
  6. Questions:
    • Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the bearded dragon’s diet, origin, age, or any other concerns. A reputable seller will be transparent and informative.

Fun and Miscellaneous

Unique Facts About Bearded Dragons:

  1. “Bearding”: They get their name from their ability to flare out the skin in the throat region when they are threatened or during mating rituals. This looks like a beard.
  2. Wave Hello: Bearded dragons sometimes raise a front leg and “wave”. This behavior is believed to be a submissive sign, acknowledging a more dominant dragon or sometimes just a quirky behavior.
  3. Third Eye: Bearded dragons have a parietal eye (known as the third eye) on the top of their heads. It doesn’t see images but can detect light and movement, alerting them to predators from above.
  4. Cold-Blooded Sunbathers: As reptiles, they are ectothermic (cold-blooded) and need external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. They love basking under the sun in the wild.

Popular Bearded Dragon Names:

  1. Spike
  2. Draco
  3. Blaze
  4. Rex
  5. Luna
  6. Smaug (after the dragon from “The Hobbit”)
  7. Puff (inspired by “Puff the Magic Dragon”)

Toys, Outfits, Costumes, and Harnesses:

  1. Toys: Bearded dragons are curious creatures. You can introduce small balls or even plush toys. Some bearded dragons also show interest in mirrors.
  2. Outfits: While not everyone dresses up their bearded dragon, there are cute outfits available like wizard hats, capes, and even tutus. Check this cute Bearded Dragon outfit on Amazon.
  3. Harnesses: If you want to take your bearded dragon for a stroll, a harness is essential. They come in various sizes and designs. Here’s a popular bearded dragon harness on Amazon.
  4. Costumes: Especially around Halloween, there are many fun costume ideas for bearded dragons like superheroes, princesses, or even mini dragons. Always ensure they are comfortable and the outfit isn’t restrictive.

Memes, Tattoos, and Bearded Dragon Squishmallow:

  1. Memes: Bearded dragon memes have been popular on platforms like Reddit and Instagram. They often play on their quirky behaviors or “dino” appearance.
  2. Tattoos: Many bearded dragon enthusiasts get tattoos of their beloved pets. This can range from realistic depictions to more stylized or tribal designs.
  3. Bearded Dragon Squishmallow: Squishmallows, the plush toy brand, might have a bearded dragon design considering their wide range of animal plushies. If you’re interested, you might find one here on Amazon, or try searching “Bearded Dragon Squishmallow” to find sellers.

Conclusion

Bearded dragons, with their unique appearances, quirky behaviors, and manageable care needs, have established themselves as one of the most sought-after reptilian pets globally. Their prehistoric look, combined with a relatively docile temperament, makes them a fascinating addition to any home. Over the course of this guide, we have delved into the intricacies of their biology, care requirements, fun facets, and the expenses associated with their upkeep.

For potential pet owners, it’s crucial to understand that owning a bearded dragon, or any pet for that matter, is a commitment. It requires time, effort, and a dedication to understanding and catering to their needs. In return, these creatures offer companionship, intrigue, and the sheer joy of observing a piece of the wild in the confines of one’s home.

Whether you’re drawn to their waving antics, their “bearding” displays, or simply the calm they bring to a space as they bask under a lamp, bearded dragons are undeniably captivating. As with all pets, the bond formed between a bearded dragon and its owner is special, built on trust, care, and mutual respect.

For those considering bringing a bearded dragon into their lives, or for those who already share their home with one, the journey promises to be filled with discovery, challenges, and countless rewarding moments. Embrace the adventure and cherish the unique experience that these miniature dragons bring to our world.