Creating the perfect habitat for your bearded dragon
Are you looking to create the ultimate oasis for your bearded dragon? Contrary to what you may think, decorating a bearded dragon tank is easier than it sounds. This article will walk you through some creative ideas to help you add style and functionality to your bearded dragon’s enclosure.
With many different habitat themes and accessories available, you will be sure to create your reptilian dream home. From rocks that double as nail files to hammocks made from woven plants, the possibilities for creating a unique and inviting space for your bearded dragon are endless. So, what are you waiting for?
Before you start decorating your bearded dragon enclosure
Getting the temperature, humidity, and UV light conditions right in a bearded dragon tank before you begin adding decor is essential. These conditions must be perfect so your bearded dragon can live healthy and happy in their home. If the temperature, humidity, and UVB exposure are incorrect, your bearded dragon could experience stress or become sick. So, taking care of these things before adding the finishing touches is best.
Basking rocks for bearded dragons
Basking rocks are the centerpieces of your bearded dragon tank. They provide a flat, heat-absorbent surface that can elevate your pet closer to the basking lamp to absorb warmth. Basking spots also offer comfort and security for your beardie, allowing them to escape from the ground if they feel threatened.
Look for basking rocks specifically designed for reptiles. These materials should be safe, non-toxic, and easy to clean. Options are available in a variety of colors and shapes. Basking rocks or logs designed for reptiles other than bearded dragons (iguanas, geckos, snakes) will work fine for your bearded dragon.
Natural basking rocks can also be introduced to the tank. However, it’s recommended that you sanitize them first. To sanitize, soak the rock or log in boiling water and vinegar for approximately 10-20mins. Then, allow it to dry thoroughly before adding them to the enclosure.
Bearded dragon hides
A place for your bearded dragon to hide plays a crucial role in their well-being for both practical and psychological purposes. In their natural environment, bearded dragons often seek hiding places for security and to reduce stress levels. Providing your bearded dragon with a hide in its enclosure mimics its natural behavior, giving it a safe place to escape and not be disturbed. This allows them to regulate their body temperature and recover from environmental stressors.
You should purchase hides designed for reptiles and ensure they are appropriately sized. Hides should be placed in different areas of your bearded dragon’s enclosure, allowing them to exercise their instincts and enhancing their general health and comfort.
Food and water dishes for bearded dragons
Your Bearded dragon set-up will require dishes for their food and water. Food bowls should have taller sides to keep food and surrounding material separate. This helps with cleanliness and reduces the risk of impaction.
Bearded dragons can be pretty clumsy at mealtime, so look for dishes with a wide, stable base. This will help prevent your pet from spilling or tipping over the bowl while eating. Standard small ramekins and shallow dishes make great food and water dishes. However, you may prefer the natural look of faux rock dishes, which are available at pet stores and online retailers.
Flagstone rock for bearded dragons
A flagstone is a flat sedimentary rock with a rough surface. Flagstones make great functional decor for bearded dragon tanks. When your beardie walks across the flagstone’s rough service, their nails will naturally file down. This is a great way to maintain your bearded dragon’s nails and keep them at a healthy length.
What are the benefits of filed-down nails? For one, it reduces the risk that your beardie will scrape or scratch you while being handled. Additionally, it ensures that your dragon’s nails won’t catch on materials in and around their environment.
Flagstones come in a variety of colors, patterns, and shapes. Choose one that best suits your style and the size of your dragon’s tank.
Bearded dragon enclosure plants
Live plants can help create a naturalistic atmosphere in your bearded dragon tank. The downside to live plants is that they require maintenance to keep them alive. Faux plants are also a good option, as some can look real and require no maintenance. If you are going to add faux plants to your bearded dragon’s habitat, make sure you only use artificial plants specific to reptile terrariums.
It’s important not to overcrowd the tank with plants. Not only can this leave your bearded dragon feeling claustrophobic, but it can also create excess humidity, which is not ideal for your beardie.
What plants can I put with my bearded dragon?
When choosing live plants for your bearded dragon enclosure, we recommend low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plants that require little water. Plants such as succulents and grasses are good options. Here is a list of suitable and safe plants to add to your habitat:
- Aloe
- Sansevieria
- Echeveria
- Agave
- Crassula ovata
- Festuca
Bearded Dragon enclosure backgrounds
If you’re after the natural habitat look, you can create a realistic landscape backdrop with a three-dimensional background. These backgrounds are made from nontoxic materials and molded from actual rock walls. They look so realistic that if you didn’t know, you would think it was a natural rock.
Printed backgrounds are another more cost-effective option. You can find these in many prints to suit your style or theme. They are easy to install and attach to the outside of the tank using tape or command strips.
Bearded Dragon hammocks
A hammock is another fun and functional styling piece you might want to add to your bearded dragon’s habitat. Not only do hammocks look great, but they also provide your beardie with an alternative basking spot to relax and absorb warmth. Plenty of options are available on the market, so you will be sure to find one that suits the style and theme of your habitat setup.
Other Bearded Dragon tank accessories
Once you have provided a basking spot, a place to hide, and some things to climb, you can fill out the tank decor with other accessories.
Driftwood is a popular option and can be used to create an exciting landscape or a bridge between rocks. Just ensure that any driftwood you don’t buy is sanitized before adding it to the tank.
Some beardie owners like to add miniature furniture, such as a tiny chair or desk, to create a cozy living space for their pet. These conversation pieces are a fine addition as long as they are made of non-toxic material that won’t hold bacteria (avoid soft fabrics or plastic).
Conclusion
Bearded dragons can benefit from a carefully crafted habitat, and decorating their tank is a fun way to make it aesthetically pleasing and practical. From live plants and flagstones to backgrounds and hammocks, there are many ways to spruce up your bearded dragon’s home. With a few creative touches, your pet will have an inviting home with a safe and stimulating environment.
