Bearded dragons have become quite popular as exotic pets. Although these animals might come across as fierce reptiles, they are quite gentle creatures and do well in captivity. A bearded dragon lifespan is about eight to fifteen years, depending on the kind of care it receives. While certain genetic factors are not in your control, you can ensure that all other aspects are met so that your beloved pet has a good life expectancy.
Here are some factors that increase the lifespan of bearded dragons.
Good Diet
Bearded dragons are omnivorous, so you can give them both plant and meat-based food. They reach full maturity around eighteen months. Till then, they need a lot of protein, and you can feed them moths, dubia roaches, small spiders, worms, and crickets.Insects should consist of 80% of their diet at this point, and make sure you get your feed from a good source. 20% of the diet can consist of plant-based feed like broccoli, asparagus, mushrooms, beans, and even fruits like cucumber and watermelons. As they grow older, reduce their protein consumption by bringing down meats and increasing the proportion of the plant-based diet.
Simulated Natural Habitat
Your bearded dragon’s lifespan will increase remarkably if they have a safe, natural habitat to stay in. These animals are native to Australia's deserts, so you can choose a substrate in the enclosure that will give them the required warmth similar to sand.However, using actual sand for captive dragons can be a problem as it can get into their eyes. In that case, you can use artificial substrates. The enclosure should also have a rock or platform where they can climb onto and some cave-like structures where they can slide into, especially during brumation. You can also create a hammock, and they love to take a nap on it!
Temperature and Humidity
The right temperature is crucial for baby bearded dragons. A hatchling will require around 100 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit, and for adults, it should be a little below 100. Make sure the enclosure also has a cool part where the temperature is below 90 degrees Fahrenheit.This is because bearded dragons often regulate their body temperature, and not being able to do that will negatively affect their life expectancy. The enclosure should also have a UVA or UVB light source because it helps in their digestion.
Regular Vet Checkups
Regular vet checkups with a reptile specialist are an important part of a bearded dragon's care. They will check the feces at regular intervals to ascertain there are no worms or parasites in their digestive tract to ensure they get full nourishment and live their full cycle.They will also monitor a female dragon's health when she is about to lay eggs to ensure minimum stress on their bodies during the birthing process and ensure that the new hatchlings are born healthy.
With optimum care and lots of love, you will ensure that your pet thrives through its entire lifespan. Make the best choices in terms of diet and habitat, and they will be fine.
