Read about the vivarium size, temperature, and setup for bearded dragons. As bearded dragons are our most common reptile companion it’s important that we know the correct way to care for them. This blog post will show you how to turn your vivarium into a bearded dragon setup.
Bearded dragons need UVB light on top of the basking bulb heat and light, this allows them to produce vitamin D3 which gives them stronger bones and prevents other ailments such as Metabolic Bone Disease. There are two main types of fluorescent tube, one of T5 fitment, and one T8 fitment. The main difference visibly is in the size of the tube, the older arcadia T8 tube is: 1″ (2.5cm) in diameter whereas the equivalent T5 tube is: 5/8″ (1.6cm) in diameter.
The output of each bulb is completely different, the T5 is twice as bright as the equivalent T8 D3+ lamp and the T5 also produces 95% more UVB which is certainly better for your bearded dragon. This is not only essential for giving them plenty of space to move around; keeping your bearded dragon in a large vivarium will also make it easier to create different temperature zones, which your bearded dragon needs to be able to regulate its own temperature.
You will need an accurate thermometer so you can make sure the temperature within your bearded dragon’s tank is ideal. For larger tanks, you will need a thermometer for the hot and cold sides of your tank. Smaller tanks can generally be ok with one thermometer.
One of the most important factors in ensuring good bearded dragon health is their environment. To provide the correct environment for our beardies we have to master setting up a bearded dragon vivarium. Bearded dragons are large and active reptiles, so they need a large vivarium. We’d recommend a 4ft x 2ft x 2ft vivarium for an adult bearded dragon.
Bearded Dragon Vivarium Size
You need to make sure you have the right size tank for your bearded dragon. A tank too small can be very stressful for your beardie and can limit their overall growth. Use the guidelines below to help determine the best tank side for your dragon:
- Baby Dragons – Baby dragons need a 20-gallon tank. This gives them space and makes it easier for them to catch their food.
- 10-16 Inch Dragons – Early adult dragons need at least a 40-gallon tank. However, the larger the tank the happier your dragon will be and the larger they will grow.
- 16-20 Inch Dragons – Larger dragons will need larger tanks and it’s recommended to have at least a 50-75 gallon tank for dragons of this size.
- 20+ Inch Dragons – If you have a bearded dragon that is 20 inches or longer you will need a minimum of a 75-gallon tank, but a 120-gallon tank would be ideal.
Bearded Dragon Vivarium Temperature
Bearded dragons are from a desert-like environment, so their tanks need to be heated. Generally, a tank should have a hot side where the temperature is anywhere from 95 F° to 110 F° and a cool side where the temperature is around 85 F°. Because of this, it is recommended that you have two thermometers (one for the hot side and one for the cool side). Your beardie will need a basking spot where he/she can bask in the heat. The basking spot should be 95 F° for adults and 110 F° for juveniles. Do not use a heated rock for your dragon because they can easily burn the underside of them.
Bearded Dragon Vivarium Setup
Bearded dragons are not shy animals, they are happy to be out on show all the time. For their benefit, give them some java wood to climb on and a decent lump of rock to bask on. Apart from that, they only really need a food dish for their daily veg and a water bowl (keep these at the cool end). Also, see either your vivarium look’s good or not. Cover the harsh edges of a vivarium by using a lot of artificial plants.
Bearded Dragon Vivarium Reviews
Hailing from central Australia, Bearded Dragons well deserve their reputation for outgoing personality and hardiness. Their durability allows them to live in varied environments, from harsh deserts to green forests. Bearded Dragon Kits are designed to provide them enrichment with wood for climbing and basking, safe plants for nibbling and hiding under, and our exclusive substrate that allows the creation of burrows. The humid burrows will keep your Dragon hydrated, and the loose soil keeps them active with digging opportunities (as nature intended). Some of the reviews about vivariums are:
- The Large Vivexotic Terrestrial Vivarium is a great vivarium for many species of medium to large-sized reptiles. It’s perfect for bearded dragons, young tortoises, skinks and many snakes.
- Repti-Home Maxi vivariums offer great value living space for your reptile. These quality constructed vivariums feature toughened glass and non-peeling laminate to ensure not only will your reptile be happy and healthy in his new home but you can be sure of a high specification, long lasting vivarium that will sit effortlessly in any home environment.
