Bearded Dragon Care Guide
- Jun 2
- 1 min read
Never lose your whimsy!
Quick Facts
Difficulty: Beginner–Intermediate
Lifespan: 8–15 years
Adult Size: 16–24 inches
Behavior: Docile, curious, basking reptile
Enclosure Setup
Size:
Hatchlings (0–3 months): 20–40 gallons (temporary)
Juveniles (3–10 months): 40–75 gallons
Adults (10+ months): 120 gallons minimum (4'x2'x2')
Whimsical Truth: Bigger is always better; more space equals a healthier, more active dragon.
Temperature & Lighting (CRITICAL)
Temperature regulation is the #1 factor in long-term health.
Basking Spot: Juveniles (100–110°F); Adults (95–105°F)
Warm Side: 85–95°F
Cool Side: 75–85°F
Nighttime: 65–75°F (no lights needed). Use a Ceramic Heat Emitter (CHE) only if additional heat is required.
UVB Lighting
Without proper UVB, your reptile risks metabolic bone disease, lethargy, and death.
Lamp Type: T5 HO linear UVB lamp (Ferguson Zone 3).
Recommended Brands: Arcadia 12%, ReptiSun 10.0, or equivalent. (Do not use off-brands; output may be inadequate).
Placement: Mount inside the enclosure (not on the mesh). Lamp should span roughly 50% of the enclosure and overlap the basking area.
Distance: 12–18 inches.
Maintenance: Replace bulb every 6–12 months.
Heating & Spectrum
Basking Lamp: Use an intense incandescent or halogen spot bulb. Start with 100W. Use a plug-in dimmer to adjust and a digital infrared/laser thermometer gun to verify surface temperatures.
Ceramic Heat Emitter (CHE): Rarely needed; use only if ambient/basking temperatures cannot be met otherwise.
Full Spectrum Grow Light: Use a small LED strip inside the enclosure next to the UVB lamp to mimic natural lighting and trigger basking instincts.
Layout
Strategy: All lighting must be positioned on the warm side of the enclosure.
The Sweet Spot: The basking area should be positioned so your dragon receives both the basking light and the UVB simultaneously.
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