Hey everyone, I just recently purchased a bearded dragon from my local pet store and he isn't eating the morning after. Additionally, he's fairly complacent and isn't moving. I'm really worried about him, but I know a lot of this can just be the stress of moving into a new environment. He's in a 40 gallon tank, is really small (maybe 6 inches), the adhesive thermometer says that the temp is a bit above 90 degrees, and his UVB light is working fine. I really want him to have a good home, and i'm totally willing to get him the right things that he needs, I just need to know what they are. He has plenty of hides and the temperature gradient seems fine, but I just don't know what/if i'm doing wrong
Hello! If you've only had your beardie for one day, he/she may be stressed at the change of location. You should still offer food, but don't stress out too much if he/she doesn't have much of an appetite at first. After your beardie gets used to their new home, their appetite should increase. If you think your beardie seems lethargic or has difficulty moving around, that might be a separate issue and could merit a vet visit. Here's a guide I wrote with some basics about caring for bearded dragons: https://mantarayideas.blogspot.com/2017/07/how-to-care-for-bearded-dragons.html
Once you have accurate readings, adjust your basking light so the basking surface is between about 100-110 and there is a gradient down to about 75-80 on the cool side.
Which UVB light are you using? How far is it above the basking area?
Once the lighting is all fine tuned it should help with appetite and overall health.