There are many ways to set up a bearded dragon tank. The first step is to buy the correct equipment for your pet. For example, UV light is important for your bearded dragon. Other essential items include Basking perch and Rubber shelf liner. You can also use a paper towel. If you don’t already have these supplies, you can buy them from a pet store. However, you can purchase them online if you want to save money.
Basking perch
Creating a safe, comfortable basking platform for your pet is important for your bearded dragon. Choose a perch that’s large enough for your pet to bask in and is made from a sturdy material. A hollowed-out pine log is ideal as it has little to no porous material. Since pine contains oils that can make your beardie sick, it’s best to cook or bake the log before adding it to your beardie’s tank. Then, use a piece of the log as a basking platform.
It’s best to use multiple perches
Bearded dragons spend a lot of time basking in their enclosure, so a sturdy perch is an essential part of the habitat. For safety purposes, it’s best to use multiple perches so your beardie can select the exact amount of heat it craves. Perches are often made of grapevine, natural driftwood, or rocks, though plastic is a better choice for a more natural look. Make sure any live foliage is safe for your beardie to eat.
Use a ceramic heat lamp to avoid a chemical reaction
To avoid a chemical reaction, use a heating pad or ceramic heat lamp to provide a consistent heat source. Bearded dragons can bask on various objects, but the most important thing is to choose one that’s chemical and insect-free. Remember to sterilize the bearded dragon tank before adding outdoor objects. You don’t want to have your pet’s health at stake!
UV light
When choosing a UV light for a bearded dragon tank, remember to pay close attention to the bulb’s wattage and UVB output. You don’t want a light bulb with a higher result than the beardie needs, and a two-year-old bulb will likely not produce sufficient UVB for proper Vitamin D3 synthesis. A basking light, on the other hand, mimics the heat produced by the sun to help regulate body temperature. Several types of basking lights are available, including those designed for reptiles.
It will encourage the production of Vitamin D.
A UV light for a beardie should contain a combination of UVA and UVB bulbs. The former will encourage the production of Vitamin D in the beardie and prevent metabolic disorders. The latter will help maintain the dragon’s appetite and mood. You should change the light every six months as the UV output of a bulb decreases with time. Moreover, a timer should be installed so that the light will turn on and off at the same time every day.
A coil UVB bulb can be too intense for your beardie.
The light will burn the beardie’s eyes if it’s not adjusted correctly. Fortunately, it’s possible to find a high-quality coil bulb without these problems. However, coil bulbs are still not the best choice for beardie environments. A coil is a good option for indoors, and a coil is not a good choice for an outdoor enclosure.
Rubber shelf liner
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a substrate for a bearded dragon tank is its natural colour. A green rubber shelf liner will closely mimic the look of moss, which is a good choice for bearded dragons from arid climates. However, this material also raises the humidity level in the tank, which can lead to respiratory infections and skin problems. A bioactive substrate can also be a good choice, but it’s unnecessary.
Paper towel
It is best to provide your bearded dragon with a clean habitat, so keep a roll of paper towels and a spray bottle of vinegar, water, and dish soap nearby. Then, you can clean your beardie’s tank before he steps in. Make sure to disinfect the tank thoroughly, especially if you plan to re-use it. Here are some tips to help you make the process easier.
Monitor the conditions of his terrarium regularly
Once you have your new beardie, you should regularly monitor his terrarium’s conditions. Keep an eye on the temperature in the cool and basking areas and disinfect the terrarium monthly using a solution of 3/4 cup of bleach in a gallon of water. Similarly, keep an eye on the humidity. You can attach a hygrometer if you wish. It is a significant step if you are planning on maintaining beardies.
Try to buy a terrarium that resembles a desert environment
When choosing a terrarium, choose a theme that best suits your beardie’s personality. For example, if your beardie prefers a desert-themed habitat, try to buy a terrarium that resembles a desert environment. Adding faux cacti, a desert background, or a reptile carpet will help to create a realistic environment. A suitable habitat will provide various opportunities for a beardie to bask and exercise. Reptizoo bearded dragon enclosure is good choice.
Temperature gradient
Another crucial part of your beardie’s tank is the temperature gradient. It should be about 100degF or warmer in the basking spot and lower on the opposite side. A properly elongated tank will provide this gradient. Moreover, beardies like a more relaxed place than the rest of their habitat, and an elongated tank will provide them with that. Keep in mind that the temperature in the basking spot should be 110 deg F or higher, while the average terrarium should never fall below 70 deg F. Some sources suggest keeping it at 65degF or lower.
Give them an attractive habitat
Besides the proper lighting and temperature, you should also provide your beardie with a safe hideout. If you don’t have any hiding places for your beardie, you can buy a big enough hideout. Your beardie will live in this habitat for most of its life, so making the enclosure as attractive as possible is essential. When it comes to décor, bearded dragons love to hide and climb, so it’s a good idea to provide them with a comfortable and attractive habitat.