Beardies have been around for years. Known for their prehistoric appearance, they are one of the most popular reptiles to have as pets. Their popularity arises due to their loving ability to be handled, as well as their spiky skin and gorgeous scales. It is typical for a beaded dragon to grow up to 24 inches in length and can even weigh up to a pound. But what is the difference between a bearded dragon, and a red-bearded dragon?
What is the Red-Bearded Dragon?
The difference is easy to spot, as the red-bearded dragon gets its distinct red colouring from being bred in captivity. The type of red that comes into fruition will vary depending on its precise exact morph, however, the more vibrant the red colouring – the more expensive they become to care for.
What do they eat?
As with most reptiles, the red-bearded dragon is a reflection of a typical bearded dragon’s diet. Consisting of fruit and vegetables but also insects, it can be quite difficult to ensure your beardie is getting the nutrition it needs.
Once you get into a routine, it’s much easier to take care of. However, it isn’t an easy process to start with.
Typically, the red beardie should be on a 75% insect diet. The frequency of feeding is much higher than that of some other reptiles, as you will need to feed young bearded dragons every 15 minutes. Once they get to around 2 months in age, they will begin to mature slightly and achieve most of their growth. At this point, they will only need to be fed their insects 3 times a day.
Adults (3 months and above) should be consistent fed once per day. Change the type of insect (75%) and plant (15%) you give with each feed so that your beardie doesn’t become bored with eating.
When you start to feed, you should be gut-loading the insects at least a day before consumption. Simply, feed the insects vegetables so that by the time your beardie comes for lunch, the insect will be filled with much more nutrition than before.
Insects:
- Crickets
- Superworms
- Earthworms
Vegetables:
- Kale
- Bell peppers
- Collard greens
Fruit:
- Blueberries
- Strawberries
- Peaches
Can you keep a red-bearded dragon as a pet?
New beginner reptile owners consistently marvel at having a bearded dragon. They are known for their ability to enjoy being handled. Whether you have kids or have never held or kept a reptile-like these before, they are a breeze to own.
However, with their specific dietary needs, they do require a lot of attention. Therefore, if you are away often, especially when young, it would not be fair on your beardie.
If you have the space, time and patience, then you’ll love owning a red-bearded dragon. As they require a relatively large tank, at the very least 55-gallons, to house with specific heating requirements, they take a lot of time to get right.
If you enjoyed this article you might also like to read about Bearded Dragon Tank and Bearded Dragon Diet and Nutrition
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