Care Guide
Overview
- Common Name: Bearded Dragon
- Scientific Name: Pogona vitticeps
- Origin: Australia
- Size: 18-24 inches
- Lifespan: 8-15 years, even up to 20 in excellent conditions
- Temperament: Docile, friendly, and curious, often enjoying being handled
Enclosure Setup
Tank Size
- Minimum: 20-40 gallon for juveniles up to 75 gallons
- Recommended: 120 gallons or larger for adults
Substrate
- Ideal Depth:
- Our Mixture:
Decor
- Sturdy climbing branches
- Large flat basking rocks
- Some small foliage
- Secure dark hides
Temperature and Heating
Temperature Gradient
- Basking Spot: 100–110°F
- Warm side: 85–95°F
- Cool side: 75–80°F
- Night temps: Can drop to 70–72°F
Heating Equipment
- Halogen basking bulb (preferred)
- Ceramic heat emitter (if needed at night)
Humidity
- Target: 25-40% maintained with moist substrate, occasional misting, and a large water dish
Lighting
- UVB: Recommended (Not optional for best health)
- Use 10-12% UVB tube placed over basking area
- Photoperiod: 10-12 hours daily
Diet
Staples
- Crickets
- Dubia Roaches
- Mealworms (in moderation)
- Occasional Superworms
Feeding Schedule
- Adults: 2-3 feedings per week
- Juveniles: every other day
Supplements
- Calcium:
- Without D3: 2-3x per week
- Multivitamin: 1x per week
Water:
- Provide a shallow water dish at all times
Behavior and Handling
- Can become tame with consistent, gentle handling
- Acclimate your bearded dragon to you over the first couple weeks before handling
- Rarely aggressive but may flee or show aggressive signs if stressed (darkened beard, gaping mouth)
- When Handling, avoid grabbing from above and make sure to support their entire body
Key Care Tips
- A large enclosure with plenty of room for your lizard to grow
- Keep a hot temperature gradient
- Maintain lower humidity