How to build your own bearded dragon terrarium?
You will require the following supplies to construct your own bearded dragon terrarium:
- A 40-gallon terrarium or aquarium for a adult dragon
- A mesh or screen lid for the tank
- A heater made of ceramic or a heat lamp
- A platform or place to soak up the sun for the dragon A UVB light to emit UV radiation
- Sand, coconut fibre, or reptile carpet are examples of substrates.
- A cave or place where the dragon can hide
- A dish for food and water
Once you have everything you need, assemble your terrarium by following these instructions:
- Put the terrarium in a spot that won’t get too hot or chilly or exposed to too much sunshine.
- The mesh top or screen lid should be placed over the terrarium’s top.
- To give heat, position the ceramic heater or heat lamp solely on a single side of the terrarium.
- Place a platform or basking area on the terrarium’s opposite side.
- The UVB light should be mounted above the basking area.
- On the terrarium’s base, smear the substrate of your choice.
- Include a cave or hiding place for the dragon to flee to.
- In the terrarium, place a dish with food and water.
Bearded dragons are native to Australian deserts and have specific temperature, humidity, and UVB lighting needs. Because of this, it’s critical to conduct research and monitor the terrarium’s temperatures and lighting levels to ensure they are suitable for your bearded dragon and to provide a variety of food and water.
How to lower humidity in a bearded dragon terrarium?
In a bearded dragon terrarium, humidity can be reduced in a number of ways:
#1 – Consider using a dehumidifier to properly reduce the moisture content from the terrarium’s air.
#2 – Ensure the terrarium has enough ventilation and that the screens top is not covered, and increase airflow.
#3 – Reduce the terrarium’s water supply, including the water dishes, and lessen the frequency of misting the dragon.
#4 – Use a substrate that can absorb moisture to reduce humidity levels. Examples of such substrates include coconut fibre and reptile carpet.
#5 – Continually check the temperature and humidity in the terrarium using a hygrometer and make any required adjustments.
#6 – Air conditioning: To reduce the humidity in the space, place an air conditioner close to the terrarium.
Bearded dragons require a precise humidity range for good health, so lowering the humidity should be done gradually to reduce stress on the dragon. You should also seek the guidance of a veterinarian or reptile expert for more information. Other environmental factors like temperature and UVB illumination must also be maintained.
What size of terrarium for bearded dragons?
The ideal terrarium size for one adult bearded dragon is 40 gallons. The terrarium needs to be big enough for the dragon to wander around in, get some sun, and hide. It is advised to use a terrarium that is at least 3 – 4 feet long and 2 feet broad because adult bearded dragons can reach lengths of up to 2-2.5 feet.
However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that as the dragon gets bigger, it will need more room, so it’s preferable to start with a bigger terrarium. A bigger terrarium will also provide more decorations and hiding places, which will keep the dragon intellectually active.
It’s vital to bear in mind that the size of the terrarium also depends on how many dragons you intend to keep there. If you intend to retain more than one dragon, you will have to give each one more room to avoid tension and hostility.