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"Pet Bearded Dragon Care & Information (Pogona vitticeps)"

Bearded Dragons As Pets

Pros

Bearded dragons are still gaining popularity as household pets. Their numbers are climbing fast and they are already the most kept pet lizard in some countries (incl. South Africa).

Bearded dragons are sun basking (heliothermic) animals which means they can be observed and appreciated in their vivarium throughout the day. If all their husbandry requirements are met, pet Bearded dragons have little if any problems and they are very easy to look after.

Because they are so extensively bred they are becoming fairly cheap in comparison with other lizards and even snakes.

Bearded dragons are like most other reptiles in the sense that they are quiet and you need little effort from your side to keep them emotionally happy.

Pet Bearded dragons are extremely hardy lizards and will almost adapt in any home. They are relatively small in comparison with Green iguanas (Iguana iguana) and do not need as much physical space. They have great personalities, generally have a docile temperament and can be handled easily. Because of their hardiness they are more suitable for handling by younger people (under supervision).

Cons

The major problem with these lizards is their housing. Bearded dragons need full spectrum ultraviolet (UV) lighting and basking spots, which makes their housing setup a bit expensive. On average UV lights need to be replaced every six months.

Another downfall compared with snakes is that pet Bearded dragons need to be fed at least once every two days and that they need to be fed mainly on live insects such as crickets. Crickets are not yet widely available in some countries like in South Africa. In these cases it is recommend to have your own active breeding colony of these insects. Like with most lizards, food will probably be your biggest expense.

The Advanced Bearded Dragon Manual
For Basic & Advanced Bearded dragon care incl. Bearded dragons as pets & more...
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