Have you ever wanted to have a reptile as a pet, but you’re concerned for the bearded dragon lifespan? Well, you’re in luck, as we will be discussing one of the greatest reptilian pets for both beginners and veterans. The Bearded Dragon is perhaps one of the most ideal lizards to keep as a pet. They are extremely docile, clever, and enjoyable animals.
If you are starting out your reptile journey and are not sure where to begin, going for a Beardie, as they are affectionately called, can be a great choice. They are relatively big lizards that cover the span of two adult hands, which means you won’t have to worry about their fragility, unlike smaller lizards.
They acquired their name due to their spiky chin and neck, which puffs up as a defense mechanism that mimics a beard. They’re full of scales and shed just like other lizards. Don’t let their spikes and scales deter you, as they are very gentle and docile reptiles and are ranked one of the best reptilian pets to own. They live for quite some time which makes them committed, so it’s good to be sure of your choice, but their playful and sweet demeanor definitely makes them an easy pick.
Bearded Dragon Lifespan in the Wild
Just like the vast majority of reptilian pets, the Bearded Dragon comes from the wild. They have been bred for decades in the United States and come in many different colors due to this, which won’t be found in the wild. They thrive in warm areas and are found in all parts of Australia, primarily in savannas, subtropical woodlands, shrublands, and deserts.
In the wilderness, they can be found basking in the sun’s rays, but if temperatures become too hot, they will burrow underground, which they also do to avoid any predators that may come across their path. They especially like to climb tree branches and fence posts and are semi-arboreal.
Bearded Dragons are omnivores, and they predominately live in the wild! They will hunt down the occasional rodent or smaller lizard, but their main diet will consist of crickets, fruits, and plantations such as leaves and flowers. Their lifespan in the wild can be affected primarily by the scarcity of food and droughts, as well as predators, which makes their life expectancy lower than in captivity. A wild Bearded Dragon lifespan is up to 5 to 8 years in the wilderness.
Bearded Dragon Lifespan in Captivity
The popularity of lizards as pets boomed in the 1970s and has only skyrocketed since. Although reptiles tend to look intimidating and rough, they can actually be very great human companions with the proper care and understanding.
Bearded Dragons are a very common pet as they have one of the best natures in the reptile world. They tend to need a bit more effort and consideration in their care than other more conventional animals, such as dogs, cats, rodents, and fish, but they are well worth it. If you keep your Beardie healthy and happy, they can last a good 8 to 15 years in captivity.
With the lack of natural predators, drought, food scarcity, and other contributing factors to their demise, they can live long lives, almost doubling that of wild Bearded Dragon lifespan. Making them a great decade commitment for owners.
Why Do Bearded Dragons Make Good Pets? – The Bearded Dragon Lifespan
There are many traits that make bearded dragons great pets, especially for beginners. They adapt incredibly well to captivity and can create strong bonds with their owners, enough to be able to differentiate their faces and voice. They are easily tamed and can fit into any home, and although they are large with strong jaws, they are not known to bite or show any signs of violence towards their keepers.
Bearded dragons have been known to cuddle up to their owners and even watch television together. However, they are very active animals that need stimulation. Luckily any simple toy will do, and they take an exceptional liking to cat toys, especially those on strings, as it stimulates hunting prey as in the wild. Crinkle paper balls are another great toy, as the nose and texture are extremely sensory for them.
There are many ways in which you can bond with your Bearded dragons in its bearded dragon lifespan, such as hand feeding and playtime, and they can even learn certain commands and tricks. Due to their intelligence, they can pick on cues relatively quickly.
Bearded Dragon Lifespan- Long Living
Bearded Dragons are hardy animals and can survive perfectly fine in the wilderness; however, keeping them as pets mean that their natural environment needs to match to ensure they get everything nature intended for them.
Habitat for the Bearded Dragon Lifespan
Due to bearded dragons being cold-blooded and unable to accumulate their own body heat, they need to bask in the sun or, in this case, in front of infrared light. Having a large 50-gallon tank with a mesh lid is the best option for your lizard, and you will be able to monitor them much easier through the glass.
Heating is very important. It’s best to have a UVB light that has day and night cycles. This helps to stimulate their appetite and mood as well as keeps them warm. Newspaper and reptile carpet makes great footing for your lizard and is easy to clean for weekly changes.
Diet
Bearded dragons are not picky eaters, and they enjoy insects and vegetation. As adults, they should be fed crickets or Dubia cockroaches once a day. Other insects, such as mealworms and wax moths, are also good choices. They enjoy leafy greens and fruits, and it’s crucial to learn what you can be feeding your Bearded dragon and how often, especially for their size.
Stimulation
Bearded dragons are active and playful animals, they enjoy basking and hanging out with their owners, but they do need proper stimulation. This can be done by purchasing toys such as tunnels, balls, and cast lures. They are curious and joyful creatures, and playing with them is also a great way to bond.
Bearded Dragon Lifespan Buddies
A Bearded dragon’s lifespan depends on its environment and health. They live longer in captivity than in the wild, as there are fewer threats.
