Enclosure
Creating a proper enclosure for a bearded dragon is crucial for its health, happiness, and overall well-being.
Here’s a detailed guide to setting up an ideal habitat:
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1. Tank Size
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- Young dragons (under 6 months old):
A terrarium with dimensions of at least 90 cm in length, 45 cm in width, and 45 cm in height.
- Dragons aged 6 to 12 months:
A terrarium with dimensions of at least 120 cm in length, 60 cm in width, and 60 cm in height.
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- Adult dragons:
The bigger the terrarium, the better. An adult bearded dragon should have access to a space with minimum dimensions of 150 cm in length, 60 cm in width, and 60 cm in height. However, the larger the space, the better for the health and well-being of the bearded dragon.
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2. Substrate
Safe Options: Reptile carpet, newspaper, or ceramic tiles are safe and easy to clean. They minimize the risk of impaction (intestinal blockage) that can occur with loose substrates.
Avoid: Loose substrates like sand or walnut shells, especially for young dragons, due to the risk of impaction.
3. Temperature Gradient
Basking Area: 95-110°F (35-43°C) for the basking spot, allowing your dragon to thermoregulate.
Cool Area: 75-85°F (24-29°C) on the tank’s cooler side to provide a temperature gradient.
Nighttime: Temperatures can drop to 65-75°F (18-24°C), as long as there’s a warmer basking spot available during the day.
Equipment: Use digital thermometers to accurately monitor temperatures throughout the tank.
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4. Lighting
UVB Light: Essential for vitamin D3 synthesis, which aids in calcium absorption. A tube-style UVB bulb that spans at least two-thirds the length of the tank is ideal.
Basking Light: Provides the heat necessary for your dragon to bask and regulate its body temperature.
Cycle: Mimic natural daylight by providing 12-14 hours of light and 10-12 hours of darkness.
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5. Humidity
Levels: Aim for 30-40% humidity within the enclosure. Use a hygrometer to monitor.
Regulation: Avoid making the habitat too humid. Proper ventilation and occasional misting (if necessary) can help maintain the right humidity levels.
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6. Furniture and Accessories
Basking Spots: Provide a flat stone or basking platform under the basking light.
Hiding Spots: Offer caves or hideaways for your bearded dragon to retreat and feel secure. Climbing Opportunities: Include branches, rocks, or hammocks for climbing and exploring.
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7. Water and Feeding Dishes
Water Bowl: A shallow water bowl should be available, although bearded dragons often don’t drink much from standing water. They may soak in it occasionally.
Feeding Dish: Use for offering greens, vegetables, and fruits to avoid them being soiled by the substrate. Maintenance
Cleaning: Spot-clean daily for feces, uneaten food, and shed skin. Deep clean and disinfect the entire tank monthly.
Monitoring: Regularly check and maintain the equipment (lights, heaters) to ensure they’re functioning cor- rectly.
Setting up and maintaining a proper enclosure is essential for the health of your bearded dragon. It requires initial effort and investment, but with the right setup, your bearded dragon can lead a long, happy, and heal- thy life.