Bearded Dragons

This section showcases some draconic-related (in name and appearance) reptiles alive today.

Basilisk Lizard | > Bearded Dragon | Chinese Water Dragon
Eastern Water Dragon | Flying Dragon | Komodo Dragon

.. Bearded Dragon ..

The Bearded Dragon, at the Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle, Washington.
Photo by Tim Knight, Wildlife Web

1. Bearded dragons are from Australia.

2. The most common species in the pet industry is the Inland Bearded Dragon.

3. Lives in the arid woodlands and deserts of central Australia. Spends much of its waking hours in bushes and trees, and basking on rocks.

4. When it is extremely hot, the bearded dragon will burrow underground.

5. Is an omnivore. Forages for food such as insects, small lizards and mammals, fruit, flowers, and other plant material.

6. Is tan to yellow in color.

7. It is called "bearded" because of its ability to flare out the skin in the throat region when threatened, or territorial.

8. There are spines on the throat, sides of the head, and sides of the body. The head is wedge-shaped, and the bearded dragon has a tail that is almost as long as the body.

9. Some difficulty distinguishing males from females among juveniles.

10. When they become adults, sexual differences are more apparent. The males have larger heads and larger, darker beards. The femoral (at the thigh) pores of males also distinguish them from females.

11. Adult males grow up to 2 feet in length (including tail).

12. Are typically social creatures. Appear to enjoy interaction with humans.

13. Life Expectancy: 10 years.

References:

> Animal Planet: Reptile Guide
> Australia: Bearded Dragon

return to top