🦎 General Info

The Bearded Dragon (Pogona vitticeps) is a medium-sized, diurnal lizard native to the arid deserts and scrublands of central Australia. They are named for the expandable “beard” under their throat, which can darken and puff up when displaying dominance or during courtship.

Bearded dragons are among the most popular pet reptiles in the world due to their friendly nature, manageable size, and interactive personalities. Adults typically reach 18–24 inches in total length, including the tail, with males growing slightly larger and broader than females. They are intelligent, curious, and can become quite tame with regular handling—often recognizing their keepers and even showing interest in their surroundings.

Enclosure

  • Size:

    • Juveniles can start in a 40-gallon breeder tank but will quickly need an upgrade.

    • Minimum 4 ft x 2 ft x 2 ft (120-gallon equivalent) for one adult. Larger is always better, as beardies are active, terrestrial reptiles that enjoy exploring.

  • Material: Glass, PVC, or melamine enclosures with front-opening doors and proper ventilation work best. PVC is lightweight and excellent for holding heat.

  • Substrate:

    • For adults: Washed play sand, reptile-safe sand/soil mix, or tile.

    • For juveniles: Use paper towels, reptile carpet, or tile to prevent accidental ingestion.

    • Avoid loose calcium sand or walnut shell, as these can cause impaction.

  • Décor: Provide sturdy basking rocks or branches, multiple hides, and a shallow water dish. Bearded dragons enjoy elevated basking spots where they can survey their surroundings. Include artificial or live desert plants for enrichment.

Temperature & Lighting

  • Basking Spot: 100–110°F for adults; 105–110°F for juveniles.

  • Cool Side: 75–85°F

  • Night Temperature: Can safely drop to 70–75°F. If your home drops below 65°F at night, use a ceramic heat emitter to maintain warmth.

  • UVB Lighting: UVB exposure is absolutely essential for vitamin D3 synthesis and calcium absorption. Without it, your dragon can develop Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD), which is painful and life-threatening. Use a T5 HO 10–12% UVB tube. Position it within 12–15 inches of the basking area, unobstructed by glass or plastic. Replace bulbs every 6–12 months, per manufacturer instructions.

  • Day/Night Cycle: 12–14 hours of light daily. Bearded dragons are diurnal, active during daylight hours.

Humidity & Water

  • Humidity: 30–40%. Bearded dragons thrive in low humidity, similar to their desert habitat. Use a hygrometer to monitor levels.

  • Water:

    • Provide a shallow dish with fresh, clean water daily.

    • Mist your dragon lightly a few times a week or offer soaks in warm, shallow water for hydration and shedding assistance.

    • Bearded dragons often absorb water through their vent and may drink droplets off their nose when misted.

Diet

  • Type: Omnivorous — a mix of insects and plant matter, with dietary ratios changing as they age.

  • Juveniles (under 1 year):

    • 70–80% protein (insects)

    • 20–30% greens/vegetables

  • Adults (over 1 year)

    • 70–80% greens/vegetables

    • 20–30% insects/protein

  • Staple Foods:

    • Insects: Dubia roaches, crickets, black soldier fly larvae, and silkworms.

    • Greens: Collard greens, mustard greens, turnip greens, dandelion greens.

    • Vegetables: Squash, zucchini, bell pepper, carrots, and green beans.

    • Fruits (occasional): Blueberries, strawberries, mango, and apple.

  • Avoid: Spinach, iceberg lettuce, avocado, rhubarb, and fireflies (toxic).

  • Supplements:

    • Calcium without D3: 3–4 times per week.

    • Calcium with D3: Once weekly if using strong UVB lighting.

    • Multivitamin: 1–2 times per week.

Behavior & Handling

  • Temperament: Bearded dragons are friendly, calm, and highly social for reptiles. They often tolerate handling well and may even enjoy sitting on their owner’s shoulder or lap. Males may head-bob or display beards as dominance or mating behavior, while females may arm-wave in submission.

  • Handling:

    • Support the entire body when picking up your dragon.

    • Handle regularly but gently to build trust.

    • Avoid handling immediately after feeding or during shedding.

  • Enrichment: Beardies enjoy basking, exploring, and even supervised outdoor time (in warm, predator-free environments). Offer safe branches, climbing structures, and rearrange décor occasionally to stimulate curiosity.

Health & Lifespan

  • Lifespan: 10–15 years on average, with some living 18–20 years in excellent conditions.

  • Common Health Issues:

    • Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD): Caused by poor UVB or calcium deficiency.

    • Impaction: From ingesting substrate or oversized prey. Ensure proper diet and substrate.

    • Respiratory infections: From low temps or high humidity.

    • Parasites: Maintain cleanliness and watch for runny stools or weight loss.

    • Shedding issues: Low humidity or dehydration can cause retained shed; provide warm baths as needed.

Final Note: Bearded dragons are one of the best reptile companions you can have. Their gentle nature, expressive behaviors, and engaging personalities make them perfect for both beginners and experienced keepers. With proper heat, UVB, diet, and space, your dragon will thrive and reward you with years of lively companionship and curious interactions.