Spotlight On Beardies

Did you realize how popular bearded dragons have grown in recent years? While reptiles have always had a small core of loyal followers, they are significantly less popular than Fluffy and Fido. However, this adorable reptile may be changing that. Beardies can actually make excellent pets! Continue reading to learn more intriguing facts about them from a local Aldershot, ON veterinarian.

There Are Several Types

There are actually eight types of beardies. Pogona vitticeps is the most commonly maintained species as a pet, and it is also the one we are discussing here. It is also known as the inland or central bearded dragon.

In addition to the distinct species, there are several different mutations, often known as morphs. The many morphs are all Pogona Vitticeps, although they may have varied colors and patterns. Some may also have unique nail colors, spikes, scales, sizes, and head forms. Beardies can exhibit traits from more than one morph.

They Are Poisonous (But Just A Little)

Bearded dragons can produce poison. However, if this one caught you off guard, do not panic. Bearded dragon venom is not potent enough to harm humans. If you are bitten by one, you will most likely only have transient irritation around the bite.

They Can Also Run Standing Up

Beardies can move fast when they want: they can sprint up to nine miles per hour! That’s pretty quick. Bearded dragons are not only fast runners, but also quite unique. They can even run on their back legs! You are unlikely to see your pet doing this, as it is typically done when they are scared and attempting to flee from a predator.

They Can Have Two Heads

While it is uncommon, there are beardies out there with two heads. Fountain Valley, CA’s Reptile Zoo has one!

Their Spikes Stiffen When They’re Scared

Beardie spikes are typically more decorative than functional. Most of the time, they feel soft and rubbery. However, if the animal is stressed, the spikes stiffen.

They Can Taste Smells

Beardies, like snakes, can gather fragrance molecules with their tongues. Their brain processes information as aroma rather than taste.

They Eat Varied Diets

If you’re wondering why more people don’t have bearded dragons, consider their nutrition. Beardies eat mostly live insects, supplemented with produce. Ask your Aldershot, ON vet for specific nutritional requirements.

Fireflies Are Poisonous To Them

Fireflies’ bodies contain a steroid called lucibufagins, which is highly toxic to many reptiles and insects. In fact, ingesting even half of a firefly can kill an adult beardie.

They’re Australian, Mate!

The bearded dragon is native to Australia, where it can be found in hot, arid environments such as deserts, forests, savannas, and scrub. They typically grow to be 18 to 22 inches long.

They Survive Longer In Captivity

Wild beardies normally live for four to ten years. That’s a rather excellent run for a natural lizard; while some larger lizards live longer, many smaller ones only live a few years. However, pet beardies have a longer lifespan than their wild counterparts. The average lifespan of a pet beardie is 7 to 15 years.

They’re Super Friendly

Beardies are quite friendly, which is why they have grown in popularity. Unlike other lizards, they are usually fairly calm and relaxed. They also develop strong attachments to their humans, which is unusual for a reptile. 

They Are Illegal To Keep In Hawaii

It is illegal to have beardies in Hawaii. The climate is friendly to them, so escaped pet dragons can procreate, potentially decimating nearby wildlife populations.

Beardies Have A Unique Body Language

It’s always intriguing to learn more about our animal companions and how they interact with one another. Beardies contain some unique nonverbal cues. A threatened beardie might raise its chin, puff out its beard, or open its mouth. They may occasionally hiss. Head bobs could indicate intent or attitude. A slow bob may suggest a dragon’s docility, whilst a quick one may show hostility or dominance.

They Change The Color Of Their Beard

You may have heard that turkeys’ wattles change color depending on their mood. Beardies, too, do this!

We’ve focused on entertaining information in this article, but if you’re thinking of adopting a beardie, you should also learn about not-so-fun facts like indications of sickness, frequent illnesses and diseases, and general do’s and don’ts of beardie care. Remember, we’re here to help! For further information, please contact your Aldershot, ON animal clinic.

Book An Appointment At Our Aldershot, On Pet Clinic

Do you have any queries about bearded dragon care? Are you looking for an excellent vet who works with reptiles? Contact us, your Aldershot, ON pet hospital, at any time!