Setting Up a Vivarium for Your Bearded Dragon: A Comprehensive Guide
Creating the perfect environment for your bearded dragon is crucial for their health and well-being. In this detailed guide, we cover every step from purchasing the right vivarium to setting up essential lighting, heat, and flooring. By following these steps, you can establish a comfortable and safe home for your pet.
Creating the Vivarium
Selecting and Sizing Your Vivarium
The first step in setting up a vivarium is buying the vivarium itself. You can purchase vivariums from pet stores or online platforms like eBay. Options include glass, PVC, Melamine, and ABS models, with traditional wood-sided vivariums being highly recommended. If you use a fish tank, make sure it is not overly large, as bearded dragons can become scared and may need acclimation.
The ideal size for a bearded dragon vivarium is at least 4 feet long, with dimensions of 4 feet x 3 feet x 2 feet offering a comfortable space for your pet to move and climb. While juveniles may seem to get lost in a large vivarium, most owners find this to be a myth, as bearded dragons are adaptable to various habitats.
Setting Up the Light and Heat Sources
Installing the Right Bulbs
To set up the correct lighting, install two bulbs. A long tube light with UVA and UVB rays is necessary for providing essential vitamin D and helping your bearded dragon metabolize calcium. Additionally, a basking light is needed for warmth. Place the tube light along the longer side of the vivarium with a basking light at one end. Ensure the bearded dragon can bask within 12 to 14 hours daily to maintain optimal health.
When choosing UVB bulbs, opt for the more powerful bulbs (5-12) for adults, with juveniles benefiting from 5. UVB light penetration significantly decreases after 12 inches, so ensure your bearded dragon can benefit from it. Replace bulbs every 6 months or use a UV meter to check the output. Simultaneously, install a basking light for warmth, with temperatures reaching around 95°F (35°C) at the basking spot.
Setting Up the Floor and Furnishings
Choosing the Right Flooring
A critical aspect of vivarium setup is selecting the appropriate flooring. Avoid using sand-based substrates as they are not digestible and can cause impaction if swallowed. Instead, select textured materials such as reptile carpet, paper towels, or non-smooth tile for juveniles. For adults, silicon-free play sand or Repti-carpet, a washable felt carpet, can be used. Aspen shavings are another option, providing a more natural look but require careful monitoring for moisture and mold growth.
Enhancing the Vivarium with Decorations
Adding Hides and basking Spots
Properly setting up the vivarium includes creating both a hiding spot and a basking area. Hides can be natural items like ceramic rocks or cork bark, which absorb heat and provide a cozy retreat. The hide should be large enough for the adult dragon to fit comfortably and turn around. Basking spots can be created using high-walled hides placed under basking lamps or arranged tree branches to encourage climbing and basking. Always ensure the dragon is at least six inches from the heat source to prevent burns.
Introducing Additional Elements
In addition to hides and basking spots, consider adding other furniture such as sand-blasted and sterilized branches for climbing. Plastic imitation plants can also be used for aesthetic purposes, but live plants are not advisable due to the risk of wilting and increased humidity. Decorative items like logs, bamboo shoots, and rocks can also be added to enrich the environment and provide climbing surfaces.
To enhance the vivarium's visual appeal, use a tank background on the back of the glass tank. This can make your pet feel more secure and pleasure the eye. Reptile hammocks are also popular add-ons, providing a comfortable place for your bearded dragon to rest.
By following these detailed instructions, you can create a functional and engaging vivarium for your bearded dragon, ensuring they thrive in their new home.