How to Take Care of a Baby Bearded Dragon
A baby bearded dragon needs slightly different care than an adult. This blog will teach you everything you need to know to take care of your baby bearded dragon.
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Introduction
Congratulations on your new pet bearded dragon! In this guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know about taking care of your little friend, from choosing the right habitat to feeding and bathing them. By the end of this guide, you’ll be a bearded dragon expert!
What do baby bearded dragons need?
Bearded dragons are native to Australia and are popular pets in the United States. Many people choose them because they are relatively low-maintenance, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need proper care. If you’re thinking about getting a bearded dragon, or you already have one, it’s important to know what they need in order to stay healthy and happy.
Baby bearded dragons have different needs than adult bearded dragons. They need more frequent feedings and higher humidity levels. They also need a smaller enclosure Here are some tips on how to take care of a baby bearded dragon:
-Feed them small insects 2-3 times per day
-Provide a humidity level of 30-50%. A good way to do this is to mist the enclosure 2-3 times per day or use a humidifier.
-Keep the temperature in their enclosure between 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit at night. Use a basking light to provide heat if needed.
-Give them a place to hide, such as a cave or tunnel, so they can feel safe and secure.
-Clean their enclosure regularly and provide fresh water daily.
How to Set Up a Baby Bearded Dragon Habitat
To set up a habitat for your baby bearded dragon, you will need:
-A 10-gallon tank or larger, with a screen top
-A basking light fixture and bulb
-A UVB light fixture and bulb
-An undertank heat mat, Reptile Thermostat, and/or ceramic heat emitter
-A water bowl
-Coconut fiber substrate, paper towels, or Astroturf
Place the reptile tank in an area away from direct sunlight and drafts. Fill the bottom of the tank with 2 to 3 inches of substrate. Bearded dragons are native to desert habitats and need a warm basking spot and access to UVB light to stay healthy. Install a basking light on one end of the tank, over the substrate. The basking spot should be around 95 degrees Fahrenheit. On the opposite end of the tank, install a UVB light. Keep a water bowl filled with fresh water in the habitat at all times.
What to Feed a Baby Bearded Dragon
There are a few things to keep in mind when determining what to feed a baby bearded dragon. The size of the cricket is important, as a baby bearded dragon should only be fed insects that are no larger than the space between their eyes. You will also want to dust the insects with calcium powder to ensure your baby bearded dragon is getting enough of this vital nutrient. Specially formulated bearded dragon food is available and can be used as part of your baby’s diet.
How to Handle a Baby Bearded Dragon
You can hold your baby bearded dragon as much as you like once it becomes accustomed to you. Gently scoop them up from under their belly using both hands, being careful to support their delicate tail. Put your dragon on your shoulder or arm and let them explore. If they start to feel insecure, offer them a finger to cling onto. Never pick up a bearded dragon by their tail – this can damage their spine.
How to Bath a Baby Bearded Dragon
Bathing your baby bearded dragon is important for their health and well-being. It helps to remove any excess food or dirt that may be clinging to their skin, and it also allows them to get much-needed exercise. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to properly bathe your baby bearded dragon:
1. Fill a sink or small basin with lukewarm water. The water should be shallow enough that your baby dragon can comfortably stand in it without having their head go under the surface.
2. Gently place your baby dragon into the water and let them splash around for 5-10 minutes.
3. Carefully remove them from the water and place them on a towel to dry off. Make sure they are completely dry before putting them back in their enclosure.
How to Brumate a Baby Bearded Dragon
Brumation is a process very similar to hibernation. Baby bearded dragons will typically brumate for about 2-3 months, beginning in late October and early November. This is perfectly normal and nothing to be concerned about.
There are a few things you can do to help your baby bearded dragon through this process:
1) Provide a cool, dry place for them to sleep A good temperature range is 50-60 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use a heat lamp or ceramic heater to create a basking spot if needed. Just be sure that the basking spot is not too hot, as this could cause your dragon to become dehydrated.
2) Make sure they have access to water at all times. A bowl of clean, fresh water should be available at all times. Your dragon may not drink much during this time, but it’s important that they have the option.
3) Do not handle your dragon during this time. It’s important to let them sleep and not disturb their rest. Handling them too much can stress them out and make them more likely to get sick.
4) Keep an eye on their food intake. Your dragon will probably eat very little during brumation, but it’s important to make sure they are getting enough food and nutrition. If you are concerned about their weight, you can talk to your veterinarian about supplementation options.
5) Have patience! This is a perfectly normal process that all baby bearded dragons go through. It’s important to just let them sleep and not disturb their rest. In a few months, they will be back to their normal selves!
How to Sex a Baby Bearded Dragon
To properly sex a baby bearded dragon, you need to look at the dragon’s tail. If the tail is thick and long, it’s a male. If the tail is thinner and shorter, it’s a female. You can also look at the size of the pores on the underside of the dragon’s tail. Male pores will be significantly larger than female pores.
Health Concerns for Baby Bearded Dragons
Baby Bearded Dragons, or Pogona vitticeps, are lizards that are popular pets. They are relatively easy to care for, but there are some health concerns that you should be aware of.
The most common health concern for Baby Bearded Dragons is metabolic bone disease. This is caused by a lack of calcium in the diet and can lead to deformities and weakness in the bones. It is important to ensure that your Bearded Dragon has a diet that is high in calcium, either through supplements or through food sources such as kale and collard greens
Another common health concern for Baby Bearded Dragons is respiratory infections. These are usually caused by bacteria or viruses and can be treated with antibiotics. If you think your Bearded Dragon has a respiratory infection, take him to the vet as soon as possible.
Finally, Baby Bearded Dragons can also be susceptible to parasites. The most common parasite found in Bearded Dragons is Cryptosporidium, which can cause diarrhea and dehydration. If you think your Bearded Dragon has parasites, take him to the vet for treatment.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to take care of a baby bearded dragon, you can provide your little reptilian friend with the best possible chance at a long and healthy life. By following the proper diet, providing ample space to roam and bask, and keeping their enclosure clean, you can enjoy many years of companionship with your pet.
