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Western Bearded Dragon

Species Background

Licence - Category 2

Lifespan - 10 years

Vivarium

There are a number of vivariums that can be used to house Western Bearded Dragons, which is dependent on the number, size and age of dragon’s’. Vivariums should be large enough to maintain an appropriate thermal gradient, whereby dragons can move from one side of the enclosure to the other to regulate their body temperature. Indoor enclosures should measure at least 90cms long, 45cms wide and 60cms high for an adult pair.

Lighting and Heating

Western Bearded Dragons are a diurnal (day active) lizard and therefore require UV lighting in combination with a heat source. UV lighting and heating can be supplied in a number of ways using globes and/or tubes. Vivariums should be sufficiently large enough to provide an adequate temperature gradient with a hot spot (surface temperature) of 38°C and an air temperature ranging from 35°C in the hot end to 20-25°C in the cool end during the day. A thermostat is recommended to regulate the heat source so that the enclosure doesn’t overheat. A thermometer should be used to monitor temperatures within the vivarium.

Furnishing

Rocks and branches can be placed throughout the vivarium appropriately with a water bowl positioned in the cool end. Sand substrate is recommended.

Food (In Captivity)

Western Bearded Dragons are primarily insectivores, feeding on wood roaches, crickets and mealworms in captivity. In addition to insects, bearded dragon pellets and appropriate fruits and vegetables can be offered.  A diet of insects is calcium deficient therefore insects should be dusted with calcium and multi-vitamin powder accordingly.

Essentials

  • Vivarium
  • UV lighting
  • Heat globe
  • Thermometer
  • Thermostat
  • Water bowl
  • Substrate
  • Branches
  • Rocks
  • Calcium and vitamin supplements

Please note the information provided above is a species background, NOT A CARE SHEET. We recommend adequate background reading and research to be undertaken prior to purchasing this species. See recommended books below.

Recommended Books

Keeping and Breeding Australian Lizards. 2008 edited by Mike Swan

Keeping Bearded Dragons. 2009 by Rob Porter

A Guide to Australian Dragons in Captivity. 2012 by Dr Danny Brown

 

For further information please visit one of our stores to speak with a representative in the reptile and amphibian department.