Yes, bearded dragons generally need a lot of sun. UVB rays are crucial for the absorption of calcium which is necessary for optimum health in bearded dragons, and for the synthesis of Vitamin D3. Natural sunlight is the best source of UVB, but if your pet is not able to get proper exposure to natural sunlight, you likely need to supplement the exposure with special UVB bulbs.
The length of time necessary for the exposure can vary based on the environment, but a general recommendation is 8 to 12 hours of sunlight per day. If you are using an artificial source, the bulb should be changed every 6 months, and should be placed no more than 8 to 10 inches away from your pet.
Additionally, it is important to make sure the light is in the correct spot, and that the enclosure is not so large that it becomes ineffective.
How much sun does a bearded dragon need a day?
Bearded dragons need between 8 and 14 hours of sunlight a day. This should be full spectrum UVB light that mimics natural sunlight. UVA (ultraviolet A) light is also important for the bearded dragon, but is usually provided by the same type of lighting used to provide UVB.
Make sure you provide it with a dedicated basking spot with a suitable basking platform that further enhances their ability to thermoregulate in its environment. Any light should be positioned within 12-18 inches from your dragon to ensure it receives the desired levels of light.
Depending on the size and activity level of your dragon, the intensity of the light may need to be adjusted regularly. It is best to use a digital thermometer with a built-in UVB meter to ensure that your dragon is experiencing the right levels of sunlight.
How long should I let my bearded dragon sit in the sun?
Bearded Dragons need access to proper amounts of ultraviolet light every day to remain healthy. As a rule of thumb, the general idea is to provide enough exposure to the sun for your bearded dragon to bask for between 30 minutes and 2 hours each day, depending on the time of year.
In the winter months, when the sun is weaker, you should start off slowly and gradually build up the amount of time they spend outside in the sun. In the summer months, when days are longer, they can spend longer amounts of time outside, however it is important to always avoid overheating.
The ideal temperature for your bearded dragon to bask in is between 95 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit (35 to 40 degrees Celsius).
The best way to ensure that your bearded dragon is getting the correct amount of sun exposure each day is to provide them an outdoor enclosure that is in the direct sun, in addition to a basking spot in their tank.
A place mat or rock perch should be available at this spot so they can bask. As long as the temperatures aren’t too warm, you should never have to worry about having to remove your Beardie from its basking spot.
When it is hot outside, it is important to keep an eye on your bearded dragon for signs of overheating, such as lethargy or panting. Once you notice these signs, you should move your bearded dragon to an area with cooler temperatures to prevent any further injury.
Will my bearded dragon be OK without a basking light?
No, your bearded dragon will not be okay without a basking light. Bearded dragons need a basking light to provide them with the essential heat that helps to regulate their body temperature. Without the light, your bearded dragon will be unable to maintain a safe body temperature for proper digestion and health.
Additionally, the light helps to support your bearded dragon’s natural behaviors such as basking, which helps to regulate their overall health. A basking light is essential for your bearded dragon’s wellbeing and should not be taken away from them even for short periods of time.
If you cannot provide a basking light, you may need to look into alternative ways of providing your bearded dragon with the heat and UV needed to keep them healthy.
Do bearded dragons like to be out of their cage?
Yes, bearded dragons like to come out of their cages for some supervised exercise, exploration, and socialization. However, it is important to make sure their environment is safe and escape-proof, as well as regularly cleaned.
It is also important to provide ample space and hiding places for your bearded dragon as they explore.
Outside of their cage, you can offer your dragon plenty of stimulating playtime, including taking them for walks, letting them explore their surroundings, and playing games like chasing and hide and seek.
When outside their cage, always make sure they’re supervised and that they don’t wander too far.
As with all animals, it is important to remember that each lizard will have its own preferences and comfort levels. Some beardeds enjoy more active playtime than others, so be sure to observe your lizard’s body language and adjust accordingly.
It is also important not to force them to do something they do not want to do, as this could lead to unwanted stress and potentially injury.
Is it okay to walk your bearded dragon?
Yes, it is perfectly alright to walk your bearded dragon as long as you are aware of the proper safety precautions. Bearded dragons are naturally quite adventurous and love exploring new surroundings.
Walking your bearded dragon outside should only be done while on a leash and should also take place in safe, familiar areas that are free of other animals, people, and cars that could frighten your dragon.
Make sure the leash is comfortable enough for your dragon and is equipped with an adjustable collar that can be tightened as needed. Once outside, stay with your dragon at all times to make sure that it is safe and not in harm’s way.
If you are going to be out for a long period of time, make sure to bring along some food and water for your beardie too. Additionally, be sure to check your dragon for any bug bites or parasites that may have come from its adventures outdoors.
With the right supervision and safety, walking your bearded dragon can be a fun and enjoyable bonding experience that the both of you can share.
How hot is too hot for bearded dragon at night?
Bearded dragons should have night time temperatures between 65-70°F (18-21°C). Anything below this range can put them at risk of becoming ill and developing health problems such as metabolic bone disease or respiratory infections.
On the other hand, temperatures that are too high can be equally dangerous. Bearded dragons can overheat quickly and any temperature above 80°F (26. 67°C) should be avoided. Additionally, if the night time temperature is significantly warmer than the day temperature, then the risk of overheating and health issues increases.
It’s important to provide optimal temperatures for bearded dragons day and night and to make sure that night temperatures do not fluctuate too much from day temperatures.
How do I know if my bearded dragons basking spot is too hot?
If you are asking yourself if your bearded dragon’s basking spot is too hot, you can tell by monitoring their behaviors and looking out for signs of discomfort. If you notice your bearded dragon attempts to move away, shows signs of lethargy, or attempts to hide or burrow, your basking spot is likely too hot.
To be sure, you can use a digital thermometer or an infrared temperature gun to accurately measure the temperature of the basking surface. For adult bearded dragons, the basking spot should stay around 95-105 degrees Fahrenheit, and for juveniles, it should be about 5-10 degrees higher.
If the temperature is too high, you can try reducing the wattage of your light bulb, moving the basking site farther away from the bulb, or switching to a lower wattage bulb to reduce the basking temperature.