Central Bearded Dragon Care Sheet
Pogona vitticeps
Overview
Bearded dragons are one of the most popular pet reptiles in Australia. Known for their calm personalities, distinctive appearance, and interactive nature, they are a great choice for beginner to intermediate keepers.
Quick Facts
- Scientific Name: Pogona vitticeps
- Size: 40–60 cm adult length
- Lifespan: 8–12 years in captivity
- Temperament: Calm and friendly
- Diet: Omnivore — insects and vegetables
- Activity: Diurnal (active during the day)
Enclosure Setup
Enclosure Size
- Hatchlings: 60x45x45 cm minimum
- Adults: Minimum 120x60x60 cm
- Provide ample floor space, climbing areas, and basking platforms
Heating & Lighting
- Basking spot: 38–42°C
- Cool end: 24–28°C
- Night temps: Can drop to 18–22°C
- Essential UVB lighting (10.0 or higher) for 10–12 hours daily. Ideally a T5.
Substrate
Sand (Eco Tech Desert Sand or Bunnings Play Sand are good choices, or fake grass are the most common choices. Avoid coarse sand or gravel that can cause impaction. Bearded Dragon's taste their environment with their tongue, so there is an increased risk they may ingest some of the large gravel if present.
Hides & Decor
Provide multiple hides, basking logs, branches, rocks, and artificial plants. Enrichment helps stimulate natural behaviours. When you first get a hatchling, they will appreciate 'clutter' as it will make them feel more safe. It's common behaviour to start with an enclosure filled with decor, then slowly back off as the dragon settles into the new environment.
Humidity
Maintain humidity between 30–40%. Avoid excessive misting. Ensure good airflow.
*Note from Ethan - Over the years of keeping Bearded Dragons in South East Queensland, I have never found the need to worry about humidity. I personally avoid misting inside the enclosure and keep the water dish on the cool side. Most commonly it's recommended to keep the humidity extremely low (30-40%, however, this isn't always possible depending on your climate. As long as the humidity isn't prolonged excessively high, I wouldn't stress too much about the humidity levels.
Feeding
| Age | Diet | Feeding Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Hatchling (0–4 months) | 80% insects (crickets, roaches), 20% leafy greens | 2–3 times daily |
| Juvenile (4–12 months) | 50% insects, 50% vegetables | 1–2 times daily |
| Adult (12+ months) | 20% insects, 80% vegetables | Once daily |
Dust insects with calcium and multivitamin powder. Provide fresh greens daily.
Maintenance Checklist
- Change water and food daily
- Spot clean enclosure daily
- Deep clean monthly
- Monitor weight and appetite
Handling & Behaviour
Bearded dragons are social and tolerant of handling. Support their body and avoid restraining them. Hand-feed occasionally to build trust.
Signs of stress include black beards or hiding excessively, however these can also be signs of mating behaviour and brumation, both completely normal. Reptiles are incredibly good at hiding signs of stress and illness, but once you get to know your animal, it becomes easier to tell when they're 'off'. If in doubt, always consult a reptile specialist vet.
Common Issues
- Impaction: Caused by ingesting substrate or undigested food - Likely incorrect heating is the cause.
- Metabolic Bone Disease: From lack of calcium or UVB or both
- Shedding problems: Usually due to low humidity or dehydration
Recommended Feeding Products
Reptifauna offers Dubia Roaches suitable for bearded dragons:
- Dubia roaches (various sizes)
- Other options include Crickets, Wood Roaches, and BSFL.
Final Notes
Bearded dragons are active, curious, and make wonderful interactive pets. With proper care, they thrive in captivity and quickly become a family favourite.
