Bearded Dragon Habitat

Bearded dragon is a common term used to refer to the seven species of lizards, native to the central Australian desert. These lizards are typically characterized by spiny scales on their throat and the back of their head. The habitat of this lizard species spans over the arid dry regions of the Australian continent - a region which these lizards have successfully made their home owing to their superior adaptability.

Bearded Dragon

The Bearded dragon lizards can grow to a length of 16-22 inches from their head to tail, and weigh approximately 15-20 pounds. The spiny scales located in rows over their body are important tools of their defense mechanism. These lizards expand the scales on their throat, in order to threaten their enemy. They are also observed to change their color like the chameleons, especially during male rivalry during mating or in response to change in temperature.

Natural Habitat

The Bearded dragons inhabit the rocky semi-desert regions and arid woodlands in Australia. These lizards have adapted themselves very well to this region despite the immense scarcity of food. These small creatures are diurnal in nature. Being omnivorous in nature, they feed on a large variety of insects and plant matter. These species are normally seen basking on the rocks in the early morning and late afternoon. When the temperature becomes unbearable, these lizards tend to burrow in the ground. They are exceptional climbers and hence, are mostly seen on branches of trees, in bushes and even, on fence posts. These cold blooded creatures prefer temperatures in the range of 80°F during the day and 70°F at night.

Bearded Dragon Habitat in Captivity

Compared to different types of lizards, Bearded dragons are friendly and calm in nature and are thus, considered to make great pets, especially among hobbyists. Several species of this lizard are caught and bred by people, the most popular among which is the Pogona vitticeps species. In captivity, these lizards feed on green leafy vegetables, as well as insects such as, crickets and silkworms. Young ones require more insects in their diet, owing to the greater nutrition requirement of their growing bodies.

You can use aquariums to house your pet Bearded dragon. The size of a bearded dragon habitat is the most important aspect to consider when you keep these lizards as pets. An adult Bearded dragon will require a 50-60 gallon aquarium, while a 10-15 gallon aquarium will be more than enough for young dragons. You can use newspapers, brown paper or indoor carpet as the substrate. Never use soil which contains pesticides or fertilizers for this purpose. You can also provide your pet reptile with a place to hide in the aquarium. If you are thinking of adding some plants to the enclosure, Dracaena and hibiscus are good options as these plants will not only provide the dragon with shade and a place to hide but will also help in maintaining necessary humidity in the enclosure.

These animals require heat for proper digestion of food and hence, you will have to provide your pet lizard with a supplemental source of heat. This can be provided by using readily available accessories such as incandescent lights, heating pad, and infrared heat emitters etc. They will also require temperature in the range of 90 degrees Fahrenheit when it comes to basking. Maintaining proper humidity is another crucial factor when it comes to Bearded dragon care. A shallow pool of water is yet another important component of Bearded dragon cages.

Though, the habitat ideas are bound to differ from each other to some extent, the necessary components, such as shallow pool of water and heat source, tend to remain the same. Being territorial reptiles in nature, two male Bearded dragons caged together, are bound to fight although, a male and a female Bearded dragon can be kept together. If you are planning to keep these lizard species as pets, you will also have to ensure that the hygiene of their habitat is well maintained.