Desert Dweller Reptiles

Caring for Your Bearded Dragon (Pogona Vitticeps)

Heating of the enclosure can be accomplished by placing an incandescent spot light over a basking site within the enclosure. If the size of the enclosure permits more than one basking site, each site should have its own spot light. The wattage of the spot light will vary with the enclosure size, basking location, and room temperature. Keep in mind the purpose of a basking site is to allow the lizard to reach an optimal body temperature. As we stated earlier, reptiles should be given a temperature gradient so they can regulate their body temperature. Therefore, the daytime basking site temperature should reach about 88-100 degrees F, while the opposite end of the enclosure should be around 75-85 degrees F.

In our opinion, secondary heating is not necessary if the room temperature is not allowed to drop below 60 degrees F. We don't recommend using heat rocks with hatchlings, as hotspots in the heating element can quickly and fatally burn your pet.

Water: Drinking water should be offered daily in the form of a small water dish within the enclosure or through periodic spraying. Bearded dragon hatchlings need to be sprayed at least 3 times per day, directly on their head/nose, the reason being they may not adapt to drinking from a water dish. Water quality is an essential component of good husbandry; if you use a water dish "Keep it clean!"

Feeding: Baby bearded dragons need to be fed at least 2-3 times a day, adults at least once a day to ensure optimum growth. There are a variety of insects that can be fed to hatchlings. They include but are not limited to: small roaches, small crickets (pinheads to 3/8 inches), small meal worms (newly shed preferred), wax worms, small grasshoppers, and baby superworms (if available). Regardless of the insect, make sure it is of high quality. All insects prior to feeding should be sprinkled with a supplement, we recommend Rep-Cal's calcium/VIT. D3 supplement, at least one feeding per day for the prevention of calcium deficiency. Also, daily or every other day, offer a small amount of finely chopped kale, romain lettuce, and chopped mixed vegetables. Greens are an important source of water for your reptile.