The Ultimate Bearded Dragon Guide: Housing, Feeding and Lifespan

The inland bearded dragon, also known as the central bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps), is among the most popular pet reptiles, admired for its gentle, inquisitive, and docile nature. These diurnal creatures—active during the day—are indigenous to Australia, where they roam arid to semi-arid regions, including deserts, grasslands, and woodlands, soaking in the hot, dry climate.

Their name comes from the flap of spiky skin under their chin, which puffs up and darkens like a beard when they feel threatened or emotional. The scientific name Pogona is derived from the Greek word pogon, meaning beard. All species have a flat body, broad head, stout legs, and armor-like scales and spikes running along their sides and throats, giving them a dragon-like appearance.

There are currently eight recognized species of bearded dragons, all affectionately called “beardies.” The most commonly kept pet is the central bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps), though species range in size.

Bearded Dragon Profile

  • Scientific Name: Pogona
  • Common Names: Bearded Dragon (Inland bearded dragon, central bearded dragon, western bearded dragon)
  • Habitat: Australia’s deserts, woodlands, grasslands (hot and dry climates)
  • Diet: Omnivore (eats both greens and insects)
  • Size: 18 to 22 inches (some species up to 60cm; pygmy species ~30cm)
  • Weight: 10 to 18 ounces
  • Lifespan: 4 to 10 years in the wild, 10 to 15 years in captivity
  • Nature: Docile, gentle, inquisitive, active during the day (diurnal)

Despite their popularity, many people adopt a bearded dragon and aren’t sure what to do next. Often, pet stores provide incomplete or inaccurate care information, leading to confusion for new owners. That’s where this site helps — offering trusted guidance on vivarium setup, temperature needs, and balanced diets to ensure your beardie lives a healthy, happy life.

Natural Habitat

Bearded dragons are native to most parts of Australia, where they thrive in warm, arid environments such as deserts, subtropical woodlands, savannas, and scrublands. Their natural habitat is defined by low humidity, dry terrain, and intense sunlight — conditions that suit their cold-blooded nature. Since they rely on external heat sources to regulate body temperature, bearded dragons are often seen basking in the sun to warm up, or burrowing underground to escape extreme heat and potential predators.

Although the export of wild bearded dragons was banned by Australia in the 1960s, they have since been successfully bred in the United States for the pet trade. Today’s pet bearded dragons are available in a variety of color morphs not typically found in the wild. While their natural habitat includes vast open spaces, they can live healthy lives in captivity if their enclosure mimics these conditions—meaning a warm, dry setup with proper lighting and low humidity is essential for their survival and wellbeing.

Species

There are eight recognized species of bearded dragons, all belonging to the genus Pogona. The most commonly found species in the worldwide pet trade is the Central Bearded Dragon (Pogona vitticeps). Known for its calm nature and manageable size, this species is a favorite among reptile enthusiasts.

In addition to the central species, several other sub-species exist, each with its own unique traits. The Rankins Dragon (Pogona henrylawsoni), also referred to as Lawson’s Dragon, is a smaller species that is widely available in the UK pet market. Other species include:

  • Pogona barbata – Eastern or Coastal Bearded Dragon
  • Pogona minor minima – Dwarf Bearded Dragon
  • Pogona minor – Western Bearded Dragon
  • Pogona microlepidota – Drysdale River Bearded Dragon
  • Pogona nullarbor – Nullarbor Bearded Dragon
  • Pogona minor mitchelli – Mitchell’s Bearded Dragon

Each species is native to different parts of Australia, adapting to specific local environments, but they all share the spiny appearance and “beard” display behavior that makes them so distinctive.

Behavior and Communication

Bearded dragons are known for their territorial nature, especially adult males who may display aggressive behaviors to defend their space, compete for food, or assert dominance over other males. In some cases, males might even attack females that don’t exhibit submissive behaviour. Both males and females use their distinctive beard as a key tool for communication. When threatened, a bearded dragon will open its mouth, raise its chin, and puff out its beard, often accompanied by a hiss, to make itself appear larger and more intimidating.

These reptiles also communicate through color changes in their beard and head bobbing. A quick head bob is a sign of dominance, while a slow bob paired with an arm wave indicates submission. Bearded dragons are primarily terrestrial, capable of running with speed, but they are also adept climbers that can easily scale trees.

With seasonal changes, many bearded dragons enter a phase called brumation — a type of hibernation where they stop eating and drink water sporadically. This typically occurs during the fall or winter, triggered by shorter daylight hours and lower temperatures. During this time, dragons become less active, and after the cooling period, males resume their dominance displays, including beard flaring, tail biting, and head bobbing.

Diet and Feeding

Bearded dragons are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and live prey. Their strong jaws allow them to crush hard-shelled insects like beetles, and they’ll also eat leaves, flowers, fruits, and even the occasional small lizard or rodent. A rich, varied diet is key to ensuring proper health and growth, as feeding just one or two food sources—even with supplements—won’t offer enough nutritional value.

Here’s what a healthy bearded dragon diet should include:

Live Food (Protein):

  • Crickets, locusts, and calciworms
  • Should be kept in well-ventilated containers
  • Must be gut-loaded (fed healthy greens) before feeding to your dragon

Safe Greens and Veg:

  • Watercress, rocket, cress
  • Grated butternut squash, dandelions, clover, plantain leaves
  • Offer a mix of greens regularly for balanced nutrition

Threats to Bearded Dragons

Bearded dragons face numerous threats in their natural habitat and beyond. In the wild, they are preyed upon by various predators, including birds of prey, goannas, snakes, dingoes, and feral cats and foxes. Feral cats, in particular, are a significant threat, with research indicating that they kill approximately 649 million reptiles annually in Australia, including bearded dragons . These reptiles are also susceptible to internal parasites and mites. 

When threatened or alarmed, bearded dragons exhibit defensive behaviors such as puffing out their beards and facing intruders with an open mouth. They also expand their bodies by inhaling air, making them appear larger and may emit a low hiss. Additionally, researchers have recently discovered that bearded dragons possess primitive venom glands, although the venom has minimal effect on humans.​

The most significant threats to bearded dragons are habitat loss and degradation due to land clearing and cattle grazing. These activities lead to the destruction of their natural environments, making survival increasingly difficult. Furthermore, bearded dragons are sometimes illegally captured for the pet industry, contributing to their population decline.

FAQ’s

Bearded dragons typically live 4 to 10 years in the wild, while those kept in captivity often live 10 to 15 years with proper care. Factors like diet, habitat conditions, and overall health play a significant role in their lifespan. To ensure your bearded dragon enjoys a long life, it’s important to provide a balanced diet, proper lighting, and a well-maintained enclosure.

Bearded dragons are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and animals. Their diet typically includes live insects like crickets, locusts, and calciworms, as well as greens such as kale, dandelions, and watercress. You can also offer fruits like blueberries, bananas, and apples in moderation. It’s crucial to provide a variety of foods to meet their nutritional needs.

Yes, bearded dragons can eat grapes, but only occasionally. Grapes should be cut into small pieces to avoid choking. They are high in sugar, so it’s best to offer them as a treat rather than a regular part of their diet. Always ensure your bearded dragon’s diet is balanced with plenty of greens and insects

Bearded dragons typically grow to be 18 to 22 inches long, including their tail. Some species, like the Pogona barbata, can grow up to 60 cm (approximately 24 inches). The size of your bearded dragon can depend on its species and genetic factors, but they are generally medium-sized reptiles.

Yes, bearded dragons can eat bananas, but they should be fed in moderation due to the high sugar content. Bananas are rich in potassium and other vitamins but can lead to obesity if overfed. Offering small pieces of banana as an occasional treat is recommended.

Bearded dragons can eat spinach, but it should be limited. Spinach contains oxalates, which can bind with calcium and lead to nutrient imbalances. It’s best to offer spinach sparingly and combine it with other leafy greens like kale, collard greens, or mustard greens.

Yes, bearded dragons can safely eat strawberries. Strawberries are rich in vitamins and antioxidants but should be offered in moderation due to their high water content. Always cut them into small pieces to avoid choking hazards.

Bearded dragons can eat tomatoes in small quantities. However, tomatoes should not be fed in large amounts, as they contain solanine, which can be toxic to reptiles in excessive amounts. Remove the seeds and only feed ripe, red tomatoes

Bearded dragons are generally docile creatures and rarely bite. However, they may bite if they feel threatened or provoked. Handling your bearded dragon gently and ensuring they feel safe can prevent any aggressive behavior.

The price of a bearded dragon can range from $40 to $150, depending on factors such as species, age, and color morph. Rare morphs or more exotic species may cost more. Additionally, initial setup costs for a bearded dragon’s habitat (terrarium, heating, lighting) should be considered.

Bearded dragons are curious creatures and may enjoy watching moving objects such as small insects, toys, or even television. Some bearded dragons appear to be attracted to the movement and colors on a screen, but it’s important to ensure they also get plenty of physical interaction and enrichment.

Bearded dragons can eat collard greens, mustard greens, dandelion greens, and watercress every day. These vegetables provide essential nutrients and should be offered as part of a varied diet.

Yes, bearded dragons make great pets due to their docile nature, ease of handling, and interesting behaviors. They’re also relatively easy to care for compared to other reptiles, making them a great choice for beginners and experienced pet owners alike

Bearded dragons do not hibernate, but they undergo brumation during the colder months. This is a period of dormancy where they eat less, drink sporadically, and become less active. Brumation typically occurs in the fall or winter and is a natural response to lower temperatures and shorter daylight hours.

Yes, bearded dragons can eat kale. It’s rich in vitamins A and C and is a great addition to their diet. However, like any leafy green, it should be fed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Yes, bearded dragons have teeth. Their teeth are sharp and help them catch and chew their food. However, their teeth are not as strong as some other reptiles, so they rely more on their strong jaws to crush insects and vegetation.

Taking care of a bearded dragon involves setting up a proper vivarium with the right temperature, lighting, and humidity. Ensure they receive a balanced diet with a mix of insects, greens, and fruits, and provide them with plenty of space to roam.

Bearded dragons can eat a variety of fruits, including bananas, apples, blueberries, grapes, and strawberries. However, fruits should only be given in moderation as a treat

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