Who are Bearded Dragons?
Any lizard in the genus Pogona is commonly known as Bearded Dragon. These varieties of lizards are popular exotic pets in many places, especially the Inland Bearded Dragon. Bearded Dragons are fast becoming popular amongst pet owners and may soon be more common pets than green iguanas (Iguana iguana)
Bearded Dragons: fascinating creatures
Bearded Dragons, also known as the Lizard of Oz, have broad triangular heads and flattened bodies, with adults reaching approximately 50cms (19.5 inches) head-to-tail. Males are slightly longer than females, with females tending to be slightly heavier. The species of Bearded Dragons get their name from a distinctive series of lateral spines (specialized scales) radiating horizontally from the head and base of the tail. As juveniles, they are semi-arboreal. As adults, they are mostly terrestrial, but climb to bask and search for prey. They inhabit mostly open woodlands, scrub, and desert.
Bearded Dragons can puff out the spiny protrusions under their chin beard when they feel threatened or angry, making the dragon look more intimidating and giving them the appearance of having a humanlike beard. They may bob their heads or wave either of their forearms as communication.
While the species of Bearded Dragon is native from Australia, they have been exported worldwide, and due to their convenient size, hardiness, and omnivorous diet, have become very popular reptile pets. They are now one of the most popular pet lizards in the United States (although their popularity is increasing in Japan, Great Britain and Europe too).
Do Bearded Dragons Make Good Pets?
Bearded Dragons make some of the best reptile pets. They reach a manageable size of about 18-22 inches and only require a 40-75 gallon enclosure. However, getting a Bearded Dragon is a serious commitment. They can live from 5-12 years in captivity. There are several reasons why you should choose a Bearded Dragon as your pet.
Choosing a Dragon
When you decide to buy a Bearded Dragon, whether from a breeder or pet store, you need to look it over carefully. Some things you should notice right away is how alert and active the dragon is. Do not buy a Beardie which looks to be lethargic and is unable to lift its head. The beardies should watch you with interest as you walk up to the enclosure and should also have bright and alert eyes.
Housing Your Pet
The cage is obviously the most important part to build a dragon habitat. You will need to have one with proper dimensions. Beside the cage, you will also need to do organize the pet habitat, by providing it with equipment like lighting, UV, basking logs, and a spot for cooling off.
Diet
Normally, bearded dragons are omnivorous, meaning that they eat both animal and plant matter. Any food items that your bearded dragons eat should respect clear conditions, to avoid impaction and/or leg paralysis. There are also some foods you shouldn’t feed your pet.
Bearded dragons are very docile and trusting lizards. They are very tame, outgoing and curious animals, which express themselves through a variety of body language. Living with a proper cared bearded dragon is full of joy and happiness.
I wish you and your dragon all the best!
Florian
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Good writing
Thanks Daisey, I hope you’ll find everything useful.
thanks
I really wish there were more articles like this on the web.
Our bearded dragon’s tail seems to be shriveled at the tip. Could it be part of the shedding process?