Mega Bored
Bearded dragon refers to a genus of reptiles that is kept as a pet. The lizard is named so due to a flap underneath the animal’s throat. This flap of excess skin turns black when the animal is agitated or stressed. Although a bearded dragon appears intimidating for newbie pet owners, this lizard is surprisingly affectionate. In today’s post, we are listing down care tips and fascinating facts about bearded dragon:
Bearded Dragons are Omnivores
Omnivores refer to critters that eat both plants and animals alike. Being omnivores, bearded dragons have voracious appetites! In fact, plants and insects make about 20% of the animal’s diet when they are young. As they grow, these lizards need an equal portion of vegetables/fruits and insects/protein. The lizard loves mealworms, small rodents, and crickets. Because bearded dragons demand lots of nutrients, you need to boost your pet’s diet with calcium powder to maintain health.
Daily Feeding
Unlike other reptiles, bearded dragons require daily feeding. You need to feed your pet lizard with different types of insects at least 3 times each week. Apart from daily feeding, you need to give the animal its dose of multivitamins two to three times every week. Pregnant bearded dragons require regular visits to the vet for checkups and specific feeding. When it comes to feeding, our advice is to provide a lot of vegetables and fruits. Bearded dragons love all sorts of green leafy vegetables as well as starchy veggies.
Regular Vet Care
If you are looking for a low maintenance pet to raise, a bearded dragon might not be suitable for you. You see, this lizard requires proper and regular veterinary care. Some animals require a specific type of diets to grow and thrive. Bearded dragons are no exemption. Only a vet can guide you in terms of what food to get, how to feed the animal, and how to keep it healthy. If your bearded dragon is sick, you need to take your pet to the vet right away for lab tests. Bearded dragons are vulnerable to gastrointestinal diseases that are potentially transmittable to human beings!
Surprisingly Friendly
Despite their intimidating look, bearded dragons are very friendly and affectionate. These reptiles will always respond to their owners’ voices and touch. Bearded dragons have a mild, even disposition. They are very easy to handle and move around. As long as the owner supports the underside of the animal, bearded dragons can be taken out of their cages. In addition, kids can handle bearded dragons as long as an adult supervises the little ones.
Ideal Environment
Unlike other animals, reptiles need sunlight to warm up their bodies. As such, bearded dragons require UV light, moisture, and a constant source of heat. Exposure to UV rays helps ensure that the lizard gets its vitamin D. Vitamin D helps the animal absorb other nutrients from their food, such as phosphorus and calcium. The lack of vitamin D can cause the lizard’s organs to fail.
Keep the bearded dragons in a humid environment so their skins stay healthy. Mist their skin daily with water.
