Bearded Dragon

• For one adult, provide a secure, ventilated vivarium at least 120 cm long, 60 cm deep and 60 cm high. Include climbing branches or stones, a hide at each end, and a suitable place to dig.

• Provide a temperature gradient with a basking zone at 38–42°C and a shaded cool end at 22–26°C. Use a thermostat with each heat source and check both ends daily with thermometers.

• Provide a UVB gradient measured at the animal’s level: UVI 3–5 in the basking zone and zero in the shade. Provide lower UV exposure for morphs that require it. Guard lamps and switch all lights off at night.

• Measure humidity at the cool end and maintain approximately 30–40%; improve ventilation if it rises above the recommended range.

Opportunistic omnivore eating plant matter and invertebrates; diet varies with age.

• Offer a varied mix of safe greens and appropriately sized live invertebrates. Young dragons need a higher proportion of insects; older dragons need a higher proportion of greens. Gut-load feeder insects and remove uneaten livefood.

• Keep clean fresh water available in a shallow dish at the cool end; replace it daily and whenever soiled.

• Approach without startling the dragon and scoop it up with both hands supporting all four legs. If it retreats or threatens to bite, leave it and try another time.

• House bearded dragons separately to prevent territorial fighting and injury.