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15 Fascinating Facts About Bearded Dragons

Pogona is the scientific name for bearded dragons. Bearded dragons are well-liked pets that have won the hearts of several reptile lovers across the world. Australia is the original home to this interesting species.

They are renowned for their distinctive looks, interesting habits, and endearing personalities. Here are 15 amazing facts about bearded dragons in case you’re curious about them or thinking about getting one as a pet.

1. Bearded dragons have a very unique appearance

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The spiky “beard” of scales under the chin of bearded dragons gives them their name. The scales can swell up to show dominance or when they feel threatened. Depending on the dragon’s attitude or environment, these scales, also known as the beard or gular area, can change color. They have the ability to change color, producing spectacular displays.

2. Bearded dragons have a long lifespan

Bearded dragons often reach lengths of 18 to 24 inches as they grow. Usually, the males are bigger than females. Nonetheless, a bearded dragon’s size might vary based on the species and the genetic makeup of the individual. On top of these, bearded dragons live relatively lengthy lives for reptiles. In a domesticated setting they can live for over 11 years. With the right care, some bearded dragons can live much longer.

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3. There are several species of bearded dragons

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Bearded dragons come in various species. Various species each have their own distinctive qualities. The Inland Bearded Dragon (Pogona vitticeps) and the Eastern Bearded Dragon are the two most popular varieties kept as pets (Pogona barbata). Additional species include the Western bearded dragon and Rankin’s dragon (Pogona henrylawsoni) (Pogona minor minor).

4. Bearded dragons are social in nature

A characteristic of bearded dragons is their friendliness. Over time, they might form a bond with their owners since they like interacting with them. They are naturally curious creatures. Bearded dragons like to saunter around and discover new things. Their well being depends on frequent social engagement and intellectual stimulation.

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5. These reptiles utilize an omnivorous diet

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Bearded dragons consume a variety of foods. They consume both insects and plants in their diet. The main sources of food for young bearded dragons are insects like mealworms, crickets, and tiny roaches. Bearded dragons switch to a diet that is more plant-based as they grow older. These plants include leafy greens, vegetables, and fruits. A healthy diet is essential for their wellbeing. Vitamin D3 and calcium supplements are frequently required.

6. Bearded dragons love themselves a good bask 

An example of an ectothermic animal is the bearded dragon. Bearded dragons depend on outside heat sources to control their body temperature. They really enjoy warming themselves by soaking up the UVB or heat from lamps. They can maintain their body temperature while basking, which also helps with digestion, vitamin D synthesis, and general health.

7. They store fat in their tails

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The tails of bearded dragons have the capacity to retain and store fat. They retain fat in their tails during times of abundance. When food is in short supply, they utilize the fat in order to survive. Because food supply varies in natural habitat, this adaptation aids their survival.

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8. Bearded dragons are skilled climbers

Although bearded dragons spend the majority of their time on the ground, they quite the ability to climb. They can scale trees, rocks, and even walls using their muscular limbs and razor-sharp claws. Their natural tendencies can be satisfied by providing them with a variety of climbing alternatives in their cage, such as branches and pebbles. Exercise is another benefit bearded dragons gain from climbing.

9. Bearded dragons can communicate with each other

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Bearded dragons have their own manner of speaking. They communicate with one another using a variety of body gestures and behaviors in addition to their famous beard show. Common actions like head-bobbing might denote submission, flirtation, or territorial displays. Another curious activity that is frequently seen when they feel threatened or want to assert dominance is arm-waving.

10. Bearded dragons shed skin as they grow

As they develop, bearded dragons shed their skin, just like many other reptiles do. They can get rid of their sagging, worn-out skin with the procedure known as ecdysis. New skin also grows as a result. Often, shedding happens in patches and can take several weeks to finish. A moist hide or spraying the enclosure might help with the shedding process.

11. Determination the gender of bearded dragons can be difficult

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It can be difficult to identify a bearded dragon’s gender. This is a normal occurrence when the bearded dragons are young. Males often get larger femoral pores on the inside of their thighs as they become older, and they also frequently get hemipenal bulges at the base of their tails. Compared to mature females, these traits are more obvious in males and aid in identification.

12. Bearded dragons have nocturnal habits

Bearded dragons are examples of diurnal creatures. This is the reason why they sleep at night and are active during the day. They need a regular day-night cycle to have a proper and healthy routine. It is crucial for their wellbeing to mimic their natural daylight cycle with proper lighting and to offer a dark, peaceful environment for sleeping.

13. These reptiles are excellent swimmers

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In addition to being skilled on land, bearded dragons can swim well. They have been observed swimming across waterways in search of new lands or food supplies. A shallow water dish enables them to partake in their natural habits since they may not swim as regularly in captivity.

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14. Bearded dragons can detach their tails from their body

Bearded dragons have a defense mechanism called tail autotomy that they use when they are in danger. A bearded dragon’s tail can be detached from their body. While the dragon flees, the tail continues to wiggle, distracting any approaching predators. The tail will eventually regenerate, albeit the new tail might not exactly resemble the old one.

15. Bearded dragons have a unique respiration system

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Bearded dragons don’t have a diaphragm like mammals do, which makes breathing easier. To pump air into and out of their lungs, they instead rely on muscular contractions in their throat. Buccal pumping is the term for this type of breathing. It enables them to properly absorb oxygen and adjust to their terrestrial existence.

With their unusual appearance, compelling mannerisms, and endearing personalities, bearded dragons are fascinating creatures. They need to be taken care of properly as pets. Part of taking care of them is providing them with a suitable habitat. Proper care is inclusive of appropriate temperature and lighting, a balanced diet, frequent veterinary visits, and mental stimulation.