Did you know that bearded dragons have gained popularity in recent years? While reptiles have always had a small loyal fan base, their popularity lags well behind Fluffy and Fido. However, this charming reptile may be changing that. Beardies can make wonderful pets! Continue reading as a local Wichita, KS veterinarian shares some fun facts about them.
Captive Beardies Live Longer Than Wild Ones
Wild beardies have an average lifespan of four to ten years. That’s a rather excellent run for a natural lizard; while some larger lizards have longer lifespans, many smaller ones only live for a few years. However, pet beardies tend to live longer than their wild counterparts. A pet beardie has an average lifespan of 7 to 15 years.
They’re Quite Friendly
While most reptiles are rather aloof, bearded dragons can actually be really friendly! Unlike other lizards, they are usually rather calm and relaxed. They can also become highly attached to their humans, which is unusual for a reptile. Many enjoy cuddling!
There Are Many Different Types
There are eight different types of beardies. Pogona vitticeps is the most commonly maintained as a pet, and we are referring to it here. It is often referred to as the inland or central bearded dragon.
There Are Also Many Morphs
This is when things may become complicated. In addition to the unique species, there are several mutations, often known as morphs. The various morphs of Pogona Vitticeps remain the same, but their colors and patterns alter. Some may also have distinct nail colors, spikes, scales, sizes, and even head shapes. Beardies can display traits of multiple morphs.
Some of the most common bearded dragon morphs include:
- Gunner
- Leatherback
- Paradox
- German Giant
- Zero
- Hypomelanistic
- Silverback
- Wero
- Albino
- Citrus bearded dragon
They Were Illegal To Transport
In the 1960s, Australia declared it illegal to export beardies. However, breeders have been active in the United States for decades, so there is currently little need to collect wild ones. One advantage of the many morphs is that they do not exist in nature. This contributes to reducing the capture and trade of wild beardies.
They Need Specific Conditions
Beardies, like other reptiles, have cold blood, which means they control their body temperature by migrating from warm to cool locations. They frequently relax in the sun. You’ll need to provide a proper habitat
They’re (Slightly) Poisonous
Bearded dragons do create poison, however. However, if this one confused you, don’t worry. The venom of the bearded dragon is ineffective against humans. If you are bitten by one, you will most likely experience some brief irritation around the bite site.
They’ve Broken Some Records
In terms of longevity, one exceptional bearded dragon outperformed all expectations. Sebastian survived over 19 years! Sebastian, a reptile from the United Kingdom, entered the Guinness Book of World Records for his longevity.
When They Are Stressed, Their Spikes Harden
Beardie spikes are typically more fashion-forward than functional. They usually have a soft, almost rubbery texture. However, when the animal is stressed, those spikes stiffen.
Bearded Dragons Can Taste Odors
Beardies, like snakes, can gather fragrance molecules using their mouths. Their brain interprets the information as fragrance rather than taste.
Bearded Dragons Are Omnivores … But Need Bugs
If you’re wondering why fewer people own bearded dragons, it could be due to their nutrition. Beardies eat mostly live insects, supplemented with some fresh food. Gut loading involves dusting the bugs with nutritional powder. Needless to say, if you’re terrified of creepy crawlies, you might want to find another pet.
Beardie diets alter with time: youngsters require more bugs, whilst adults can consume a greater proportion of food. Ask your veterinarian for particular guidance.
Fireflies Are Deadly To Them
This is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating facts about beardies. Fireflies’ bodies contain lucibufagins, a very toxic steroid to many reptiles and insects. Even swallowing half of a firefly can kill an adult beardie.
Fireflies Are Not Their Only Nemesis
Avocado is likewise hazardous to them, but this time it’s due to a toxin called Persin. Milk, chocolate, onions, chives, mushrooms, garlic, rhubarb, avocados, and eggplants are all foods you should never feed a beardie. Beardies dislike acidic fruits such as oranges, tomatoes, lemons, limes, and pineapples. Furthermore, you should avoid offering your beardie any insects that you catch in the wild because they may have parasites or sickness.
Remember that a beardie’s diet will change over time. Ask your Wichita, KS vet for more information on this.
They Have Fascinating Reproduction Habits
When trying to attract a mate, males often put on a show. This is not uncommon in the animal realm; numerous species display this habit. What’s not as common? Females appear to be able to retain sperm, which allows them to have many clutches from a single mating session.
Bearded Dragons Have Large Clutches
Beardies have fairly huge clutches. They can produce up to 30 eggs at once! They will lay eggs even if they are not fertilized.
They’re Fast Runners
Beardies can move very quickly when they want to. These guys can sprint up to nine mph! That was pretty quick. However, they won’t be able to maintain that pace for long.
Bearded Dragons Can Also Run Upright
Bearded dragons are not only fast runners, but they are also very unusual. They can run on their rear legs! Because of the airflow, they can keep cool. They also gain some speed this way. You are unlikely to observe your pet doing this, but it is something they do when they are scared and trying to escape a predator.
Some Have Two Heads (Yes, Really!)
While it is uncommon, there are beardies that have two heads. One can be found in the Fountain Valley Reptile Zoo in California!
They Change the Color of Their Beards.
You may have heard that turkeys change the color of their wattles depending on their mood. Beardies can also do this!
We’ve focused on entertaining information in this article, but if you’re thinking of adopting a beardie, you should also be aware of the not-so-fun facts, such as signs of illness, frequent illnesses and diseases, and basic do’s and don’ts of beardie care. Remember, we are here to assist! For further information, please contact your Wichita, KS veterinary clinic.
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Do you have any questions about caring for a bearded dragon? Are you looking for a fantastic reptile vet? Please contact your Wichita, KS pet hospital at any moment!