* Please Call or message us regarding Avalibilty*
Please note all reptiles in the Eastern Cape or leaving the eastern cape do require permits. This may take up to two weeks for it to be approved and needs to be approved before reptiles can leave the building, Please inquire
1. Enclosure Size
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Minimum tank size:
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For 1 adult: 120 cm x 60 cm x 60 cm (length x width x height)
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For 2 adults: 180 cm x 60 cm x 60 cm (length x width x height)
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For hatchlings/juveniles:
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Minimum: 60 cm x 30 cm x 30 cm (length x width x height)
2. Temperature
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Basking area: 40°C to 45°C
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Cooler side: 22°C to 26°C
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Nighttime temperature: 18°C to 22°C
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UVB light: Bearded dragons need UVB lighting for 10-12 hours a day (a UVB 10.0 bulb is commonly recommended).
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Avoid: Overheating (higher than 45°C in basking area) or inadequate UVB exposure, which can lead to metabolic bone disease.
3. Humidity
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Ideal range: 30% to 40% humidity.
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Avoid: Too high humidity (above 50%) as it may cause respiratory issues.
4. Lighting
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UVB light: A high-quality UVB bulb (10.0 or higher) is crucial for their health. Ensure it is placed 15-20 cm above the basking area.
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Basking light: Provide a heat bulb to create the proper basking temperature in one section of the enclosure.
5. Diet
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Vegetables: Leafy greens such as collard greens, dandelion greens, and mustard greens (roughly 70% of their diet).
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Insects: Crickets, dubia roaches, and mealworms (roughly 30% of their diet). These should be dusted with calcium and vitamin D3 powder 2-3 times a week.
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Fruits: Occasionally (e.g., berries, mango, and melons).
6. Water
- Always provide fresh water in a shallow dish, and some bearded dragons prefer to drink droplets of water from their enclosure's surface.
7. Substrate
- Use reptile carpet, paper towels, or tile for easy cleaning.
- Avoid sand or wood shavings for adults to prevent ingestion that can lead to impaction. For hatchlings, avoid sand completely.
8. Health Monitoring
- Watch for signs of poor health like loss of appetite, lethargy, weight loss, or abnormal feces.
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Shedding: Bearded dragons shed their skin in patches. Ensure humidity is appropriate to help them shed easily.
9. Handling
- Bearded dragons generally enjoy being handled once they're accustomed to it. Always support their body fully when picking them up.
10. Lifespan
- Typically 10-15 years with proper care.
Important Tips
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Do not overfeed: Overfeeding can lead to obesity. Monitor their weight and adjust their diet accordingly.
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Temperature gradient: Always provide a temperature gradient in the tank to allow them to regulate their body temperature (heat and cool areas).
Following these guidelines will help keep your bearded dragon happy and healthy in its environment! Let me know if you need more specific details on any care aspect.
