Did you know that bearded dragons have become extremely popular in recent years? While reptiles have always had a modest loyal fan base, they are well behind Fluffy and Fido in popularity. However, this adorable reptile may change that. Beardies can make excellent pets! Continue reading to learn some intriguing facts about them from a local Oshawa, ON vet.

Bearded Dragons’re Australians, Mate

Let’s begin with the basics. The bearded dragon is native to Australia, where it thrives in hot, arid environments such as deserts and forests, as well as savannas and scrub. They usually grow to be between 18 and 22 inches in length.

They Live Longer In Captivity

Pet beardies tend to have longer lives than their wild counterparts. A pet beardie’s usual lifespan ranges from 7 to 15 years. Wild beardies often live from four to ten years. That’s a relatively respectable life expectancy for a wild lizard; while some large lizards live longer, many small ones only live a few years. 

They’re Quite Friendly

Beardies are quite friendly, which is why they have grown so popular! Unlike other lizards, they are often calm and peaceful. Bearded Dragons also have a strong attachment to their people, which is unusual for a reptile. Many people even enjoy cuddling.

There Are Various Types

There are eight types of beardies. Pogona vitticeps is the one most commonly kept as a pet and the one we’re talking about here. It is also known as the middle or inland bearded dragon.

There are also many morphs. This is when things can get tricky. These are still Pogona Vitticeps, although their colors and patterns vary. Some may have unique nail colors, spikes, scales, sizes, and even head shapes. Beardies can even exhibit traits of multiple morphs.

The Beards Change Color

You may have heard that turkeys’ wattles change color based on their emotions. Bearded dragons do this as well!

Bearded Dragons Were Banned

In the 1960s, Australia banned the export of beardies. However, breeders have been active in the United States for decades, so fortunately there is not much of a demand for wild ones. In fact, one advantage of the many morphs is that they are not found in the wild. This helps to prevent the capture and trade of wild beardies.

They Are Cold Blooded.

This one is probably not surprising. Beardies, like other reptiles, are cold-blooded, which means they control their body temperature by traveling from warm to cool environments. 

Bearded Dragons Are Poisonous (But Not That Much)

Bearded dragons produce poison. Don’t be concerned, though: bearded dragon venom is ineffective against humans. If you get bitten by one, you’ll typically only feel some temporary irritation around the bite.

They’ve Broken World Records!

In terms of longevity, one exceptional beardie defied all expectations. Sebastian, the charming lizard, survived for nearly 19 years. Sebastian, a reptile citizen of the United Kingdom, has entered the Guinness Book of World Records.

Their Spikes Stiffen When They Feel Scared Or Stressed

Beardie spikes are usually more about flair than substance. They typically have a soft, almost rubbery texture. However, if the animal is stressed, the spikes will harden.

Bearded Dragons Have The Ability To Taste Odors

Beardies, like snakes, use their tongues to capture fragrance molecules. Their brain perceives the information as fragrance rather than taste.

They Eat Many Things

The reason why more people do not possess bearded dragons may be related to their food. Beardies eat largely live insects, supplemented by some fresh food. Gut loading requires you to coat the bugs with nutritional powder. Needless to say, if you’re terrified of creepy crawlies, you should think about getting another pet.

Beardie diets alter throughout time: youngsters require more bugs, while adults can consume a greater percentage of produce. Consult your veterinarian for particular recommendations.

Fireflies Are Poisonous For Them

Fireflies’ bodies contain lucibufagins, a steroid that is highly toxic to many reptiles and insects. In fact, consuming even half of a firefly can kill an adult beardie.

They Have Interesting Reproductive Habits

When attempting to attract a mate, males frequently put on a show. This is not uncommon in the animal realm; numerous animals engage in this activity.

What isn’t as common? Females appear to be able to retain sperm, allowing them to produce many clutches from a single mating session.

They Have Big Clutches

Beardies have huge clutches. They can lay up to thirty eggs at once! They will lay even if the eggs aren’t fertilized.

Bearded Dragons Run Fast

Beardies can move quickly when they wish. These men can sprint as fast as nine miles per hour! That’s quite fast. However, they will be unable to maintain that pace for long.

They Can Also Run Standing Upright

Bearded dragons are not only fast runners, but they are also quite unusual. They can truly run on their hind legs! This helps them stay cool because of the air flow. They also gain a little more speed this way. You are unlikely to see your pet doing this, as it is typically done when they are scared and trying to flee from a predator.

They Could Have Two Heads

While it is unusual, there are beardies with two heads. One can be found at the Reptile Zoo in Fountain Valley, California!

They Are Not Legal To Keep In Hawaii

Bearded dragons are lawful in the continental United States, but keeping them is illegal in Hawaii. This is due to the accommodating climate, which may be overly so. Escaped pet dragons can multiply, causing populations to devastate nearby fauna.

Beardies Have A Distinct Body Language

It’s always fascinating to discover more about our animal companions and how they communicate with one another. Beardies use some amazing nonverbal cues. A threatened beardie may raise its chin, swell its beard, or open its lips. They may also hiss. Head bobs could convey intent or attitude. A slow bob may imply that a dragon is placid, but a fast one may show anger or dominance.

Fireflies Aren’t Their Only Weakness

Avocado is likewise hazardous to beardies, but this time it’s because of a molecule called persin. Milk, chocolate, onions, chives, mushrooms, garlic, rhubarb, avocados, and eggplants are all foods that should never be given to a beardie. Beardies dislike acidic fruits, including oranges, tomatoes, lemons, limes, and pineapples. Furthermore, you should avoid giving your beardie any insects you catch in the wild because they may contain parasites or sickness. Keep in mind that a beardie’s diet will change over time. You’ll want to get specific advice from your vet, and check back regularly on this.

We’ve focused on entertaining facts in this article, but if you’re thinking of adopting a beardie, you should also know about the not-so-fun facts, such as signs of sickness, frequent illnesses and diseases, and general do’s and don’ts of beardie care. Remember that we are here to help! For further information, please contact your local Oshawa, ON animal clinic.

Make An Appointment At Our Oshawa, ON Pet Clinic

Do you have any questions about caring for bearded dragons? Are you looking for a great vet who specializes in reptile care? Contact your Oshawa, ON pet hospital at any moment!