Bearded dragon - future plans?

Question

I know I ask tons of questions, but I'm learning so much and I'm excited about my new baby.

He's in a 30 gallon tank for now, until my hubby gets back from Iraq (should be home by New Years). When we get our new house I'm planning on turning an old computer desk into his new house. It stands about 5 feet tall, 3 feet wide, and 2 feet deep (estimated). Do beardies need 'running' room or would they rather climb high? I'm trying to figure out if I should lay it on its side and modify it that way or build it upright like it is now. I'm already working on the plans. =) Also, should I have a glass front or do they do well with a screen-type front?

Answer 1

It really ought to be a glass type enclosure with the ability to have a light overhead so it will warm up. If it is an old desk I doubt it will be able to receive light from the hood all throughout it and hold the heat so that the dragon is kept at the right temperature. (85-95 degree F. during the day, about 75-80 at night)

They aren't big climbers but do like to be able to get up high somewhat near (not touching!) their basking light. They don't run much but do need room to move around some. The 30 gallon tank should serve him for a year or more.

Good luck with finishing the deployment. My fiance just got back from Iraq and I had dragon watching duties for a year.

Answer 2

Beardies need a lot of running room and some for climbing... I'd recommend you go with the 5ft for length, 2 or 3 ft for height and you will need to check out a proper UVB bulb for that kind of caging.  

Glass or screen, glass helps regulate heat easier but not necessary.  Screen on top, OR, UVB lights must be mounted inside.

I encourage you to join a group where you have access to all the links and resources AND experienced, long time bearded dragon owners, as well as vets, and reptile rescue/rehabilitators to share their ideas with you.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bearded_dr...

While beardeddragon.org is not a horrible site, it's FAR from perfect. They lack many critical details and without further research you will be sacrificing the health and LONGEVITY of your beardie!!!   My community has a LINKS and FILES section available for your convenience. You do not have to join to use them, there are plenty of links even for do-it-yourself cage building-- as well as resources for getting the UVB right for him.  Make no mistake, each of these areas is critical for the long term. They are tough, but you have to decide if you want him to live for 2 yrs, 3 years, or the 10-12 years we expect them to.  Come check us out, you won't be disappointed.

Answer 3

This site is soo helpful

I got my first beardie June 1st 2008

and before I got him I talked to poeple and learned so much.

www.beardeddragon.org