Bearded dragons

Calm, curious and active by day, bearded dragons are delightful reptiles in a well-built vivarium. At the heart of their care are the right heat, the right UVB light and an age-appropriate diet.

Typical lifespan: 8–12 years
Social needs: Prefers to live alone
Active hours: Active by day
Experience level: Needs some experience

Values are typical ranges and vary with breed, husbandry and the individual animal.

Quick care summary

The care essentials for Bearded dragons.

Heat and lightA basking spot and a cooler end; a reptile UVB lamp is essential.
FeedingJuveniles eat more insects, adults mostly fresh greens and vegetables.
TerrariumA large terrarium where it can turn, move freely and climb.
Care routineCheck temperatures regularly and replace the UVB lamp as recommended.

In depth

In short

Bearded dragons are active by day and need a basking area.
A heat gradient with warm and cool zones is essential for regulating body temperature.
Proper UVB lighting is critical for bone health and must be replaced regularly.
Juveniles eat more insects; adults eat more greens.
They are usually housed alone.

Bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps) are lizards from the dry, hot regions of Australia. They bask, watch their surroundings and forage throughout the day. They are loved for their calm temperament, but their care requires far more than a simple glass tank.

Setting up the vivarium

Size: An adult bearded dragon needs a large vivarium where it can turn around, move freely and climb. Small setups are only a short-term solution, even for juveniles.
Heat gradient: There should be a basking spot at one end and a cooler area at the other. The animal regulates its own body temperature by moving between the two. Measure temperatures regularly on both the warm and cool sides with a digital thermometer.
UVB light: Bearded dragons need UVB light to use calcium. Use a UVB lamp made for reptiles and suited to the length of the vivarium, and replace it at the intervals recommended by the manufacturer; UVB output fades over time even while the lamp still gives off light.
Night: Lights should go off; a moderate drop in night-time temperature is natural.

Feeding routine

Bearded dragons eat both insects and plants, and the balance changes with age: growing juveniles eat more insects, while adults mostly eat fresh greens and vegetables. Insects are usually dusted with a calcium supplement; agree the type and frequency with your veterinarian. Insects should be sized to suit the animal's head.

Behavior and handling

Bearded dragons show fascinating communication such as "head bobbing", "arm waving" and puffing out their beard. Most get used to being handled calmly with support over time. They are usually housed alone; keeping two dragons in the same vivarium can lead to stress and fighting.

A winter-rest period (brumation)

Some bearded dragons become less active and eat less at certain times of year. This can be a natural process, but it is important to consult your veterinarian before and during this period to assess the animal's condition.

Frequently asked questions

How long do bearded dragons live?

With good care, typically 8–12 years, sometimes longer.

Can sunlight through a window replace UVB?

No. Window glass blocks most UVB rays; a dedicated UVB lamp is needed.

Are bearded dragons social?

They can get used to their people, but they generally prefer to live apart from others of their kind.

Good to know

The most important points.

Measure, don't guessHeat and UVB settings depend on your equipment and room conditions. Review your setup with a veterinarian or specialist experienced with reptiles.
When to contact a vetSigns of discomfort in reptiles can be noticed late. If you see a change in appetite, activity or appearance, contact a veterinarian experienced with reptiles.