This page is dedicated to the Inland Bearded Dragon (P. vitticeps). They are a medium sized (to 24" max, STL), omnivorous agamid lizard with a large head, stocky (though somewhat compressed) body, and powerful legs. Dragons are semi-arboreal (notably the youngsters).

Their native habitat in Australia consists of semi-arid scrub and desert. They are diurnal (active during the daytime) and get their "Bearded Dragon" name from the fact that they have a series of impressive spikes which form a beard around their throat. This 'beard' is used as an inflatable threat display, becoming deep black and looking very impressive and macho when combined with the characteristic head bobbing of a displaying dragon (yeah mate, you guessed it - this a male thing *grin*).

Females tend to be less inclined to use any threat display as the males are dominant and the beard is a territorial display device.

In captivity, these are arguably the tamest, cutest, and silliest lizards on the planet. They are delightful animals with gentle and interactive personalities. Indeed, they bite so extremely rarely (even wild specimens may often be handled without complaint) that a bite to the keeper would be headline herp news.

They fare well when kept individually, or in small groups with plenty of space. However, only one male per groups is advisable, due to their strong territoriality. 1.1 or 1.2 works well.

Allow around eight sq ft of viv space per adult pair. Indeed, as much space as possible for any number of combination of Dragons - these are VERY active and inquisitive lizards which like to constantly explore their environment.

They require a high temperature with basking and UV lamps - up to 38oC DTH and down to 21oC NTL. Photoperiod is best between 8:18 and 12:12 light/dark (depending on season).

Diet wise, these being omnivorous lizards, will accept all manner of insects, small animals, greens, fruits, and even flowers. In their native Australian habitat, they are often found to rely on yellow dandelion and beetles for the main bulk of their diets (Hoser 1997).

It is to be noted that hatchlings and juveniles will often refuse veg and greens until they are older... though in captivity they should be actively encouraged to take these foodstuffs early in order not to have them become fussy feeders later on in life (and thus restricting their nutrition intake through varied diet).

Click these links to open in your browser, or RIGHT click and choose <save target as> to download to them permanently to your system :o)

Please note that this gives you a one off license to obtain through download material which is still legally copyrighted. You may not copy, alter, or distribute copyrighted material without written permission from the authors.