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Whether you are considering getting a new uromastyx as a pet, it is crucial that you are aware of the needs that this animal has. It is an exciting moment, but it also means new responsibilities.

If you are a new or veteran reptile owner, this blog will serve as a uromastyx care sheet to create the ideal tank setup for your exotic pet. 

What Size Tank Do Uromastyx Need?

Before bringing your pet uromastyx home, you must set up the tank where it will live. This type of lizard requires an amplish space to move around and establish its territory. You should aim to set up a minimum 40-gallon tank, ideally 4’x2’x2′ (120 gallons).  Full-grown uromastyx lizards average 10 to 18 inches; however, Egyptian uromastyx can grow up to 30 inches. Depending on the species of uromastyx, you will need a tank that fits the size of your pet and allows for natural behaviors and a proper temperature gradient to happen.  

The tank size also depends on the age of the uromastyx you are getting. A single small baby uromastyx can live in a 20-gallon terrarium, but will soon need to be upgraded to a 40 gallon once well established. Remember, bigger is better!

Best Substrate for Uromastyx

A uromastyx requires the right substrate for a healthy and comfortable environment. These lizards are originally from northern Africa, so you should try to recreate their original habitat in your terrarium. A mixture of play sand and topsoil will allow your uromastyx to burrow, but other substrates will also work. 

Exo-Terra excavator clay, tiles, and even paper towels are useful for a uromastyx terrarium. Tiles are excellent surfaces that can be used for creating hides and are easy-to-clean. Paper towels are also a safe option for monitoring your pet’s poop, but should only be used for animals under observation. 

A mixture of loose and solid substrates creates a more engaging and diverse environment for your uromastyx, so make sure your terrarium has a comfortable living environment by combining substrate types. 

Best Basking Rocks for Uromastyx

For reptile care, the most popular options for basking rocks include natural rocks out of granite, sandstone, or other minerals with flat surfaces. Artificial rocks made out of resin are another popular option for reptile owners. Choose rocks that retain and radiate heat effectively to help create a warm basking area for your pet. 

Remember to provide many basking spots for your uromastyx. Uromastyx lizards are ectothermic, like most reptiles. This means they depend on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. Providing different basking places for your pet will keep them comfortable and healthy in their new habitat. 

Additional Tips for Creating the Perfect Uromastyx Tank Setup

Now that you’ve addressed the key elements of a Uromastyx tank setup, here are some additional tips to consider:

• Lighting: Provide both UVB and UVA lighting to mimic natural sunlight. These reptiles require UVB for calcium metabolism and UVA for proper behavior. A linear UVB strip such as the Zoo Med Reptisun, or Reptizoo 36″ lighting combo are necessary for proper absorption of UVB. 
• Hiding Spots: Include several hiding spots within the tank using rocks, logs, cork bark, or caves. As a nervous species, uromastyx lizards appreciate having secure retreats to reduce stress.
• Diet and Water: Uromastyx are strict herbivores, and cannot process insects or meat properly. A balanced diet of nutritious greens supplemented with calcium, veggies, and legumes as treats will keep them happy and healthy. 
• Heating and Thermoregulation: Uromastyx are a hot arid animal, and require a temp gradient of at least 120 degrees fahrenheight under their basking spot, and around 80 ambient on the ‘cool’ side. At night, a temp drop of down to 65 fahrenheight is safe, and should be allowed for proper rest. If your temps reach below 65, a ceramic heat emitter can be used to bring temps into range. 
• Regular Maintenance: Regularly clean and disinfect the tank, substrate, and basking rocks to prevent the buildup of bacteria and parasites. 

Work with Jabberwock Reptiles

A well-designed Uromastyx tank setup is essential for the health and happiness of your pet. By choosing the right tank size, substrate, basking rocks, and following additional tips, you can create an environment that closely mimics their natural habitat, allowing your Uromastyx to thrive and flourish in captivity.

Creating the ideal uromastyx tank setup can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning and attention to detail. For expert advice and high-quality reptile supplies, consider working with Jabberwock Reptiles, a trusted source for reptile enthusiasts. Our knowledgeable staff can help you select the right products and provide valuable insights into uromastyx care. Contact us now and learn more about how we can help you.

Leopard geckos (Eublepharis Macularius) are fascinating animals as pets and in their wild habitat. They are a popular choice for reptile enthusiasts and make excellent pets due to their hardiness. But how long do they live?

Whether you take pride in being a leopard gecko owner, have plans to adopt one, or find this unique species captivating, it’s natural to be curious about their lifespan. Let’s delve into the average lifespan of a leopard gecko and discover how big they grow!

How Big Do Leopard Geckos Get?

Fully grown leopard geckos typically measure around 8 to 10 inches, with males slightly surpassing females in size. Generally, males are larger than females by an inch or two. However, their dimensions and overall shape remain quite similar.

How Long Do Leopard Geckos Live as Pets?

Leopard geckos originate from the Middle East’s semi-arid, sun-drenched, mountainous deserts. Specifically, they inhabit Iran, India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan regions. One of the reasons these reptiles thrive and require minimal care in captivity is their exceptional adaptation to the challenging environments of their natural habitats.

Pet geckos generally thrive in captivity compared to their wild counterparts. On average, they have a lifespan of 10 to 20 years. Interestingly, female geckos in captivity tend to have slightly shorter lifespans than males.

This is because they sometimes lay infertile eggs, even without mating with a male. The repeated stress of egg-laying takes a toll on their bodies, shortening their lifespans.

Factors that Affect a Leopard Gecko’s Lifespan

Leopard geckos in captivity enjoy longer lifespans than their wild counterparts due to many influencing factors. Let’s explore some of these factors:

• Except for rare occurrences such as attacks from cats or dogs, they roam without fear of predators.
• You’ll be pleased to know that they carry much lower rates of parasites! They mainly feast on insects bred and raised in captivity before being sold to pet shops and other retailers.
• Lower rates of illness and disease, largely thanks to improved sanitary measures and closely regulated conditions.
• Should illness occur, exotic veterinary care is becoming more widely available, and easier to access.
• Overall, they have lower rates of stress compared to wild leopard geckos.

Pet geckos can have longer lifespans primarily because they reside in controlled enclosures. Ideally, temperature, humidity, and diet are closely monitored, and promptly adjusted at the indication of abnormalities. If a captive gecko falls ill or sustains an injury, their owner is able to find proper vet care.

Leopard Gecko Care Level

Leopard geckos are amazing! They’re incredibly hardy and can easily get used to being handled, although baby geckos can be a bit jumpy. The best part is that cleaning is a breeze since leopard geckos tend to only do their business in one spot.

Remember to give your new leopard gecko at least a week to settle into its new home before handling, starting with just a few minutes at first. And please, never pick them up or hold them by their tails, as they can drop them if stressed.

Some things to take into consideration to properly care for your gecko are:

Temperature, Lighting, and Space Requirements

To keep your leopard gecko comfy, make sure its tank has a hot spot of around 90-95 degrees. You can achieve this by placing a heat pad on a thermostat under part of the bottom, however above heat (CHE, DHP, basking spot) is ideal as it mimics the sun. The ambient tank temperatures should stay around 80 degrees and not drop below 70 degrees.

For the little ones, a 20-gallon tank is perfect, while adults thrive in 40-50-gallon tanks. Remember, length and width are usually more important than height, though given the opportunity they will climb on sticks and decor. Leopard geckos are SOLITARY and should not be housed together except for breeding purposes.

Humidity/Water Requirements

To maintain optimal tank humidity levels, it is recommended to keep them around 30-40%. Ensure a water bowl treated with repti-safe is present in the cage, and to keep it clean and free of debris and biofilm.

Cage Flooring

Leopard geckos need a dry substrate, and there are several easily cleanable options to choose from. Paper towel, tile, non-adhesive shelf liner, and newspaper are all good options for non loose substrates. We recommend a mix of playsand and organic topsoil for loose substrates, as if ingested it can be passed easily. Avoid repti-carpet, as their teeth and nails can get caught, and rip out.

Cage Decoration

Leopard geckos need at least three hides in their enclosure: one with moisture on the warm side, a dry warm hide, and another without moisture on the cooler side. The moist hide can be created by lining it with dampened moss or a wet paper towel. Though three hides is minimum, these curious reptiles love cluttered and enriching environments, there is no maximum enrichment! Feel free to add lots of foliage, climbing opportunities, and new decor!

Jabberwock Reptiles Have You Covered!

Leopard geckos can make wonderful pets due to their hardiness and long lifespans. They live 10 to 20 years in captivity, with optimal care and maintenance. Their lifespan can be extended further by living in carefully controlled enclosures, accessing quality food sources, and receiving veterinary attention when needed.

At Jabberwock Reptiles, we sell an impressive selection of exotic reptiles as well as products for their care. We have a wide variety of leopard geckos ranging in size and color. All our animals are healthy and well-taken care of to ensure their long lifespans!

Our knowledgeable staff is always happy to answer any questions about caring for a pet reptile. Visit us today and discover the wonder of owning a pet reptile yourself!

Corn snakes (Pantherophis Guttatus) are commonly found throughout the southeastern United States and are part of the rat snake species. Due to their colors, orange and red, some people tend to confuse the corn snakes with the copperhead ones. But corn snakes don’t have venom and are mostly harmless to humans.

Corn snakes are a popular choice for pet owners due to their docile nature and beautiful colors. But if you are wondering what corn snakes eat? Here we will go over the diet these snakes should follow and how often they need to be fed.

How Often Do Corn Snakes Eat?

Corn snakes in their natural habitat have different eating habits than in captivity. If you have a pet snake, these are the time-frequency to have in mind through its various life stages:

You shouldn’t handle your snake for at least a day after feeding because doing so could cause it to regurgitate its food or cause it to become too stressed to eat.

What Foods Do Corn Snakes Eat?

Corn snake diet as a carnivore species mostly consists of mice. Rodents are the most common food for this type of snake. Keep in mind that the prey should be just 1.5 times the widest part of your snake’s body for them to eat it properly.

It is important to highlight that corn snakes can easily become overweight, so we recommend feeding them only with mice to maintain your snake’s health. The ideal way to feed them is to thaw the prey to a normal body temperature instead of feeding them with a live animal that could injure your pet.

What Can You Feed Corn Snakes Other than Mice?

As previously mentioned, corn snakes eat rodents as their main food source while in the wild or in captivity. But they can also eat other types of prey, such as:

• Rats
• Quails
• Lizards
• Frogs
• Smaller frogs
• Rabbits
• Bird eggs

Remember that the prey size needs to be adequate based on the size and age of your pet snake.

Count on the Help of Jabberwock Reptiles

When deciding to get a pet snake, keeping in mind their eating habits is quite simple. This type of snake eats mostly mice as their main food source in captivity or the wild. But they can also enjoy other types of prey, such as rats, quails, lizards, frogs, rabbits, and bird eggs.

We at Jabberwock Reptiles have the food supplies that your corn snake food needs, as well as other exotic pets for you to choose from. From living prays to frozen foods, we have it all. If you have other questions on how to care for your pet snake properly, get in touch with staff today, and they will answer all your questions!

The Russian Tortoise (agrionemys horsfieldii) is a unique, herbivorous pet. Originally this species came from arid desert regions of Central Asia and the Middle East, which means that in the wild, they had to consume a wide variety of plants for food since they like to climb and dig looking for leafy greens.

Russian Tortoises are among the most popular pet tortoise breeds because of their small size, unique personalities, and ease of care in captivity. With the right diet, they will thrive in captivity. In this blog, we will walk you through the correct diet to follow when having a Russian Tortoise as a pet.

Importance of a Proper Diet for Your Russian Tortoise

A healthy diet is essential for your Russian Tortoise if you want it to live a long and happy life. A proper diet that includes a variety of fresh vegetation, supplements, and vitamins will provide all the essential nutrients needed for them to stay in good health.

Caring for a Russian Tortoise means that you will need to be aware of the specifics of what they can and cannot eat, their proper environment, and taking it to the right vet. If not, the tortoise will become malnourished, develop health issues, and experience a possible early death.

Russian Tortoise Diet: What Should Your Pet Eat?

So, what can a Russian Tortoise eat? To prepare for hibernation, Russian Tortoises are active eaters and consume food regularly during the months leading up to summer. They are mainly herbivores in the wild, feeding on grass, leafy vegetables, edible plants, broadleaf weeds, and flowers.

Therefore, in captivity, it is best to feed them a diet rich in fiber and primarily consisting of greens, such as:

• Collards (type of cabbage)
• Dandelion greens
• Kale (in limited amounts)
• Mustard greens
• Turnip greens
• Watercress
• Escarole
• Endive
• Spring Mix (mixed salad greens)

To provide a well-rounded diet, consider adding vegetables like peppers, squash, carrots, corn, and sweet potatoes. As a treat, you can feed them a small amount of apples or some berries once or twice a week. But remember that fruit is only to be fed occasionally since this contains too much sugar.

Feeding Frequency for Russian Tortoises

Russian Tortoises naturally tend to eat a lot of food within a short time period. They remain active for only a few months each year in the wild. After coming out of hibernation, they eat excessively to prepare for aestivation, which some people call “summer hibernation,” even though it’s not hibernation but more like a long rest.

When kept in captivity, they tend to be active throughout much of the year and run the risk of overeating. Moreover, if housed in an indoor enclosure, they will not get as much exercise as they would in their natural habitat.

How often do tortoises eat? It is recommended to allow them to eat for 30 minutes each day (adults can eat every other day for an hour). It is also important to give calcium and multivitamin supplements once a week.

What Should Russian Tortoises NOT Eat?

As herbivores, Russian Tortoises should only be given a diet of plants and vegetables and avoid meat or insects. But more things need to be added to the list, such as:

• Iceberg lettuce
• Bok Choy
• Broccoli
• Spinach
• Peas
• Rhubarb
• Beets
• All grains (including bread, pasta, etc.)
• Dog and cat food
• Human food
• Most fruits (except for apples and some berries)
• Pellets
• Food made for other species

Get the Best Supplies for Your Pet from Jabberwock Reptiles

Having a Russian Tortoise requires dedication and commitment. Even though they are small, they have specific dietary needs that must be met to ensure a healthy, happy life. This type of tortoise can be a great pet companion and addition to your home.

At Jabberwock Reptiles, we provide all the essential supplies necessary for you to properly care for your Russian tortoise. We have exactly what you need, from food and vitamins to terrariums and decorations! Visit us today, and let us help you give your pet the best life possible.

Sources:

https://www.everythingreptiles.com/russian-tortoise/#Russian_Tortoise_Diet

https://www.russiantortoise.net/russiantortoisediet.htm

https://www.cascadekennels.com/russian-tortoise-care/

https://www.jabberwockreptiles.com/russian-tortoise-care/

The Crested Gecko is one of the most popular lizard species in captivity today. Despite being considered extinct, they were rediscovered and have since gained popularity and become widely available. Here we will answer the top 10 frequently asked questions about Crested Geckos!

Frequently Asked Questions about Crested Geckos

What Kind of Habitat Does a Crested Gecko Need?

To best accommodate crested geckos, provide them with a tall enclosure with hiding spots, climbing branches, and foliage. Additionally, maintain a warm and humid environment with a good heat source. If you are wondering what you need for a Crested Gecko, here is a shopping list you can follow to create a nice habitat for your pet:

• Glass terrarium
• Substrate
• Thermometer
• Hygrometer
• Lighting
• Vitamin supplements
• Water dish or water dispenser
• Branches
• Artificial plants
• Foliage

How Often Do I Need to Clean My Crested Gecko’s Enclosure?

The enclosure should be spot-cleaned daily and fully cleaned every 2-4 weeks. If you’re housing the Gecko in a bio-active enclosure, you can clean up any visible mess and keep an eye on the overall cleanliness of the enclosure. It’s still recommended to change the bedding a few times a year.

First, remove your animal, all decorations, and bedding to clean the enclosure. After clearing the enclosure, spray a reptile-friendly disinfectant all over it.

What Do Crested Geckos Eat?

Crested geckos consume plants and animals, including insects, fruits, and nectar. In captivity, you must provide a mix of insects and fruits. This is usually accomplished easily by providing a quality crested gecko diet like those made by Pangea and Repashy. 

How Often to Feed Crested Geckos?

We feed Crested Geckos every other day and give them a diet of gecko diet and small crickets. 

If you have a routine that works for feeding your Geckos and they seem healthy and active, then there’s no need to make changes. However, it’s important to keep an eye on your lizard’s weight and ensure it’s not getting too thin or overweight. Additionally, check their calcium levels periodically, especially if you have a breeding female.

Do Crested Geckos Need Heat or Light?

The temperature needed for the lizard will vary based on location and room temperature. Unlike other lizards, this type of lizard requires less warmth to thrive. This species is active during nighttime and prefers to dwell in areas with dense shade foliage that are not too hot. They thrive in temperatures between 21C-26C, which may decrease to 16C at night.

To keep your Geckos comfortable, ensure your room temperature stays within range. If you live in a cold area, use an overhead lamp to provide extra heat.

If you are wondering if Crested Geckos need light? They need a consistent day and night schedule to keep their crested Gecko healthy, as they are active at dawn and dusk. They also require exposure to low levels of UVB light, although they don’t need any light during the night.

Apparently, receiving small amounts of UVB light is good for its well-being and promotes natural behaviors. They get vitamin D3 from their food and don’t require UVB light to synthesize it. They do not need to sunbathe to produce their vitamin D3.

Can Crested Geckos Live Together and With Other Pets?

Crested geckos are solitary animals and should not be housed with other pets. If the enclosure is big enough, Crested Geckos can coexist. A group of 2 to 3 females should only have one male in their enclosure. A group of females can also be kept together without a male.

To ensure the well-being of these lizards, it’s crucial to provide them with sufficient space and hiding spots since they can be territorial.

How Big Do Crested Geckos Get?

Crested geckos go through three age groups as they develop: baby, juvenile, and adult.

Crested geckos are considered babies when they are 0 to 2 months old and have a size ranging from 2.5 to 4 inches and weight between 1.5 to 3 grams.

Crested geckos that are between 3 to 12 months old are considered juvenile. During this phase of their life, they experience significant growth.

Here is a chart that shows the growth of a crested gecko over time:

How Often Should I Handle My Crested Gecko?

Crested geckos should be handled gently and only for short periods, a few times a week. Handling crested geckos for around 15 minutes at a time is recommended, but there must be a schedule for how often to handle them. Paying attention to the Gecko’s behavior and comfort level is important.

If your Crested Gecko is only comfortable with being handled a few times a week, then you should stick to that schedule.

What Is a Crested Gecko’s Lifespan?

Many crested gecko owners are unaware that these creatures can live in captivity for 15 to 20 years if properly cared for. This means they will be a constant companion through many developments and milestones in your life.

What Is the Cost of Owning a Crested Gecko, Including Setup and Ongoing Expenses?

The cost of having a crested gecko as a pet may vary, but it usually involves buying the animal, the enclosure, substrate, heat source, food, and regular veterinary check-ups.

Buying a Pet Crested Gecko with Jabberwock Reptiles

Crested geckos are highly sought after as pet lizards because of their amazing personalities and looks. They make great pets for both novice and experienced keepers.

At Jabberwock Reptiles, we offer a variety of exotic reptiles for sale, including several species of geckos that range in size and color. We provide quality customer service to ensure your crested gecko safely journeys from our facility to yours. With us, you can rest assured that your new pet will be healthy, happy, and well-cared for. Contact us today!

The ball python (Python regius), also known as the royal python, is a terrestrial snake species native to western and central Africa. These species are considered to be ideal for beginners because of their hardy nature, low maintenance, and calm temperament. That being said, these snakes require specific environmental conditions to remain healthy.

Before bringing a ball python into your home as a pet, you must do your homework. After all, reptiles require a specially adapted environment with lights and heaters, so you can’t just dump your new family member into any old terrarium and call it a day.

But don’t worry—caring for a ball python is easier than you might expect with careful setup and monitoring. In this blog post, we’ll go over everything from optimum temperature conditions for your new python to humidity levels that make your pet feel comfortable.

Importance of Keeping Proper Temperature and Humidity Levels

Since reptiles are cold-blooded, they rely on their external environment to regulate their body temperature; you must create a thermal gradient in your ball python’s terrarium. This way, your python can warm or cool down as needed. The right temperature is essential to your reptile’s metabolism and overall health.

Humidity is also important for your ball python’s well-being. When the humidity levels in its environment are too low, it can cause your pet to suffer from dehydration and become stuck during shedding. It can also make your python more prone to respiratory infections.

In the enclosure, we are attempting to mimic the natural environment of our ball pythons while minimizing elements that could lead to illness in the wild. Two of the key features of every climate are temperature and humidity levels. You could endanger the health of your python if you don’t keep these under close monitoring.

What Is the Ideal Temperature for Ball Pythons?

The ball python is native to western and central Africa, which experiences a tropical climate. Your goal will be to come as close as possible to recreating the temperature and humidity levels of its natural environment in your terrarium—with some variations, of course.

When setting up the temperature, you first need to understand that the thermal gradient is divided into zones: the basking area, hide temperatures, ambient temperature, and the cool side.

A ball python’s ideal basking surface temperature should be between 90-95°F. Providing a warm and cool hide in your ball python’s enclosure is also important. The warm hide temperature should be around 90°F, while the cool hide temperature should be around 78-80°F. At nighttime, the temperature in the enclosure should drop to between 75-78°F.

The terrarium’s ambient temperature should ideally be 82°F. However, a degree or two above or below this is okay. Most importantly, this temperature must remain above 75°F and always be lower than your hotspot.

Heating Setup for Ball Pythons

Heat lamps, ceramic heaters, mats and pads, and radiant heat panels are appropriate heat sources for your python’s enclosure. These can be used together or separately, depending on the room temperature where you keep your snake’s terrarium and how much heat you need to give it. You will need to use an additional light source throughout the day, such as a low-level UV bulb, if you use heat sources that don’t emit light.

If you must use a heat mat or similar item, it is best to put it on the back of your enclosure rather than beneath because it is preferable to have heat emanating from above, as in nature. As most snakes prefer to hide underground to avoid the day’s heat, it is not natural for the ground to get warmer as you dig deeper. A heat mat positioned underneath the enclosure further increases the chance of burns.

To appropriately control the temperature inside the vivarium of your ball python, heat sources should also be connected to a thermostat. Also, so that you can manually check the temperature gradient, we advise positioning thermometers at both the warm and cold ends of the enclosure.

What Is the Ideal Humidity for Ball Pythons?

As previously stated, the right humidity is essential to your python’s respiratory health and shedding process. The ball python is native to regions where humidity levels range from 60 to 80 percent during the day and up to 100 percent at night.

In captivity, ball pythons generally thrive at a relative humidity of between 50% and 60%. While you don’t need to recreate their natural environment exactly, your goal should be to maintain the humidity level in the enclosure as close to that range as possible.

You can temporarily raise the humidity to 80% when your snake is shedding. However, this must be done properly since insufficient ventilation can lead to bacteria and fungi growing.

How to Adjust Humidity in a Ball Python Tank

To accurately measure the humidity in your terrarium, you will need to use a digital hygrometer. This device will tell you if the humidity levels are adequate or need adjustment. To increase it, you can mist once or twice a day with warm water, but only if the temperature is right; otherwise, your pet could get sick due to temperature fluctuations.

If the humidity inside your enclosure becomes too high, you may need to replace the substrate, reduce the size of the water bowl, or increase the ventilation. These are all important steps in creating a healthy environment for your ball python.

Finally, remember that the humidity will vary depending on seasons and other factors, so you should check it regularly to ensure that your pet has a safe and healthy terrarium. With proper monitoring, you can provide the perfect environment for your ball python to thrive and live a long, healthy life.

Find Everything You Need for Your Python

At Jabberwock Reptiles, we have all the products you need to create a safe and comfortable environment for your ball python. From heating and lighting equipment to tanks, substrates, and humidity monitors, we’ve got everything to ensure your pet has an enjoyable home.

Stop by today and speak with our knowledgeable staff about creating the perfect habitat for your ball python! We look forward to helping you make sure that your pet is happy and healthy. Visit us in Stoneham, Massachusetts, or shop online at our site!

Bearded dragons are currently one of the most popular lizard pets among Uromatixs, and for a good reason. These friendly reptiles are easy to care for, fascinating to watch and make great companions. A day in the life of these lovable reptiles can summarize as basking in the sun, crunching through leaves, or just hanging out with their owners.

These friendly animals are an excellent choice if you like reptiles and want a new pet. However, always remember that having another alive being in your care is a responsibility that requires knowledge and a proper diet to keep them healthy, happy, and active.

Bearded dragons’ diet should be carefully monitored, as their consumption directly affects their growth and health. Knowing what foods are safe and which should be avoided in their daily meals is essential to ensure your pet gets the correct nutrition.

This blog compiles a detailed guide with insights about feeding your bearded dragon, from protein requirements to the best greens and fruits to supplement their diet.

About Bearded Dragons

Bearded dragons or Pogona Vitticeps are part of the Agamidae species. They are originally from Australia and have adapted to human habitats in hot, arid areas.

These reptiles are omnivores, meaning they eat plants and animal food. Their diet consists mostly of greens, various insects (mealworms, roaches, crickets), and a few fruits. However, they have specific nutritional needs that depend on their age and stage of life, such as what kind of proteins they should consume and how much. 

The average lifespan of a bearded dragon is 8-10 years, but with the proper care and diet, they can live up to 15 years.

How Much Insect Protein Does Your Dragon Need by Age and Stage?

The diet of bearded dragons can be categorized as omnivore and herbivorous. However, this can vary with their growth and development. Younger dragons (hatchlings) need more protein because they are still growing and developing, while older bearded dragons need more greens and plant matter.

In the following table, you will find helpful information on the number of proteins should your bearded dragon consume according to age and stage of development.

NOTE: Some of the favorite insects for these reptiles are mealworms, roaches, and crickets, so be sure to consider them when preparing your dragon’s diet. 

Suggestion: It is important to consult a trustable and expert veterinarian to determine the best diet for bearded dragons based on age, weight, and activity level.

Proper Balance Between Protein and Greens for a Healthy Bearded Dragon

To maintain good health, these friendly pets require a varied diet.

In addition to insects, bearded dragons also need to eat greens to get the essential vitamins and minerals. To ensure a proper green and protein balance for your dragon, consider the table from the previous section and the one below.

What Are the Best Greens to Feed Your Dragon?

Most of a bearded dragon’s diet should consist of fruits and vegetables. Unfortunately, not all vegetables are appropriate for them. For instance, spinach, cabbage, and broccoli are not a good addition to their diet since they have low calcium and phosphorus levels.

The list below can assist you in planning your purchase of greens for your dragons’ diet.

• Mustard Greens

Nutrient content: High

Digestibility: High

• Collard Greens

Nutrient content: High

Digestibility: High

• Dandelion Greens

Nutrient content: High

Digestibility: High

• Turnip Greens

Nutrient content: Moderate

Digestibility: High

• Beet Greens

Nutrient content: Moderate

Digestibility: High

• Carrots

Nutrient content: Low

Digestibility: High

Spinach, kale, bok choy, and iceberg lettuce are not suitable to include in their diet.

What Fruits Can Bearded Dragons Eat to Supplement Their Diet?

For these pets, fruits are an excellent choice to supplement their diet, especially the ones high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals that can provide an extra energy boost. It should be noted that fruits should be given in moderation, no more than 5% of their diet, and they do not replace greens.

• Cherries
• Berries
• Mango
• Papaya
• Bananas
• Kiwi
• Apples
• Peaches
• Grapes
• Melons
• Pears
• Plums
• Avocado

Find Your Next Exotic Pet at Jabberwock

Finding the perfect pet is no easy feat, but at Jabberwock, we make it easier. We are an exotic pet store in Eastern Massachusetts and Boston,  committed to providing healthy, captive-bred reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates.

Our team is dedicated to helping you find the perfect pet for your home and ensure that it is living its best life in a caring environment.

For more information on what bearded dragons are and the best diet to provide them, visit us online or stop by our store.

Reptiles are an excellent pet for many reasons, including that they don’t generally require multiple vet visits including annual vaccinations and checkups. However, reptiles can become ill, for example upper respiratory infections in snakes are quite common, and can be serious, even fatal. Bearded dragons can also suffer from occasional respiratory infections or egg impaction.  Therefore, as a reptile pet owner, you need to have a trusted reptile vet in Massachusetts that you can go to when you need him or her, and it is best to find one before it is an emergency!

Do Reptiles Need a Special Vet?

Yes! Your reptile  will need to visit a specialized reptile veterinarian. That’s why before taking it to a nearby vet, make sure the pet’s veterinarian is qualified or experienced in the treatment of reptiles.

A veterinarian must research and comprehend the anatomy of every animal they treat. The vet is more likely to make mistakes that could endanger the life of your pet if they lack expertise in caring for reptiles.

Why Don’t Many Vets Treat Reptiles?

Many general dog/cat practitioners are not at ease or educated in reptile medicine. Treating reptiles has evolved into a specialist area of veterinary medicine, and this is because they’re anatomically different from mammals.

It is important to ask about your veterinarian’s credentials; at the very least, they should be active ARAV members (Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians).

These Are Our Recommended Vets for Your Reptile Care

In this list, you will find some of our recommendations for expert reptile care vets in the eastern Massachusetts and Boston area:

Best Reptile Store in Massachusetts

Reptiles of all kinds make wonderful pets, but not all are suitable for beginners. Your new pet will require a long-term commitment, so do your research and take your time to get ready. Locating the reptile vets in your area is a must before you face an emergency situation.

Jabberwock Reptiles is an reptile pet store in Stoneham, Massachusetts, offering healthy, captive-bred reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. We work hard to provide knowledgeable and accommodating service to our clients. We like sharing our enthusiasm for these fascinating creatures! Get in touch with us now.

Bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps) and Uromastyx are two common reptiles that people have or consider having as pets. So, when comparing bearded dragons vs. uromastyx, which one is the better choice? The two share some qualities and needs, but also have a few differences that need to be considered before deciding on which is the right lizard for you. 

Comparing Uromastyx vs. Bearded Dragons

Bearded dragons are native to the dry regions of Australia. They are often found basking in the sun on rocks. There are eight species of Bearded dragons recognized today. The central Bearded dragon is the most common species to own as a pet. These lizards are also often referred to as “beardies.” 

Uromastyx are found in dry regions of Africa and the Middle East. These lizards dig burrows or will hide within crevices in rocks for protection. The Uromastyx’s common name is the “spiny-tailed lizard.” 

Both of these lizards can make great pets but don’t forget to consider their look, care, personality, and cost.

Look

Beardies are commonly 18-24 inches from head to tail. They grow relatively quickly, with many reaching full size within 16-24 months. They have spiny reptilian scales and have a “beard” of spikes underneath their chins that they will puff up in defense.

Uromastyx often reach lengths of 36 inches and have a sturdier build in comparison. It will take them longer to reach maturity than a beardie. Males and females differ significantly in size, with females typically being half of the size. 

Personality & Lifespan 

Uromastyx are a generally docile species of reptile, but can often be nippy at first. If handled and socialized properly, they grow out of this habit. These lizards will live 10-15 years. But they can live up to 20 years or more with extra proper husbandry.

Bearded dragons are known for being a docile species and are commonly tolerant of handling if done correctly. Beardies live between 8-12 years. 

Care

Beardies will need a minimum of a 40 gal enclosure, but the bigger the better! They do not need a high-level of humidity (30-40%). But they will need a basking spot of 95-110 degrees Fahrenheit (F). Beardies will also need a cool side to their enclosure being 75-85 degrees F. Full spectrum UVB light is also needed. 

Uromastyx will need no less than a 55 gallon enclosure. Like a beardie the bigger the enclosure the better. These lizards will need a basking spot of 130 degrees F. The cool side of their enclosure should be around 80-90 degrees F. Uromastyx do not need UVB and will need their humidity around 20-30%. 

Cost 

Bearded dragons and Uromastyx both range in their pricing. Beardies typically cost between $50-200. Uromastyx will range between $80-250. There are a few factors that will affect the price of both reptiles. 

When deciding what you can afford make sure to consider where you are purchasing the animal, what morph it is, and if it is captive-bred or wild caught. Beardies tend to be less expensive but this is not always the case depending on the factors listed above.

So, Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing the right reptile for you is important. Be sure to do your research about what you can afford, as well as what kind of care and personality is best suited for you. While both are excellent pets, Uromastyx and beardies have some big differences that need to be brought into consideration. 

At Jabberwock Reptiles, we carry both Uromastyx and beardies. Stop in and talk to any of our friendly staff and they can help you pick the right reptile for your lifestyle. We look forward to helping you find your perfect scaly friend!