tinafay93
Bearded Dragon Care Sheet
Properly cared for bearded dragons make one of the best pet reptiles available. Their needs are somewhat complex and without proper care they can become ill. You will find that experienced keepers have differences of opinions on which substrates, ultraviolet light sources or insects are "the best". Don't let this controversy overwhelm or confuse you.
The following recommendations are based on what has worked well for myself and numerous others. It's best to do your research, gather different views and information, and reach your own conclusion.
Substrate
Substrate is a highly debated topic. Particulate substrates (walnut shells, lizard litter, Carefresh, and Calci-Sand) can cause potentially lethal impaction when ingested. Many keepers successfully use paper towels for babies, and alfalfa rabbit pellets or washed playsand for juveniles and adults.
Dragons kept on playsand should be fed in a separate enclosure to eliminate the risk of impaction from consuming sand while capturing prey insects. I have had the best luck with paper towels for babies and alfalfa rabbit pellets for juveniles and adults. Be aware that alfalfa rabbit pellets can grow mold or fungus if they get wet from spilled water. This can create health hazards.
Lighting and heating
Lighting and heating are crucial to your dragon's well being. The necessary heat, light and UVB can be provided with a household light bulb and a Reptisun 5.0
Bearded Dragon Care Sheet
Properly cared for bearded dragons make one of the best pet reptiles available. Their needs are somewhat complex and without proper care they can become ill. You will find that experienced keepers have differences of opinions on which substrates, ultraviolet light sources or insects are "the best". Don't let this controversy overwhelm or confuse you.
The following recommendations are based on what has worked well for myself and numerous others. It's best to do your research, gather different views and information, and reach your own conclusion.
Substrate
Substrate is a highly debated topic. Particulate substrates (walnut shells, lizard litter, Carefresh, and Calci-Sand) can cause potentially lethal impaction when ingested. Many keepers successfully use paper towels for babies, and alfalfa rabbit pellets or washed playsand for juveniles and adults.
Dragons kept on playsand should be fed in a separate enclosure to eliminate the risk of impaction from consuming sand while capturing prey insects. I have had the best luck with paper towels for babies and alfalfa rabbit pellets for juveniles and adults. Be aware that alfalfa rabbit pellets can grow mold or fungus if they get wet from spilled water. This can create health hazards.
Lighting and heating
Lighting and heating are crucial to your dragon's well being. The necessary heat, light and UVB can be provided with a household light bulb and a Reptisun 5.0