New here, new to Beardies

[Keith J]

Hello all. My name's Keith and I sparked a sudden interest in bearded dragons last night when I was actually looking to buy a snake for my g/f's son. I didn't like the snakes they had so the lady suggested a bearded dragon. The ones she showed me were almost 3 inches long, not sure how old but I imagine they're within the first few months of life considering their adult size. So yeah she let me hold one and I just fell in love with the little guy right then and there. SO, I know absolutely nothing about these beautiful creatures aside from the fact I know that I MUST have one but before I get one I wanted to learn more about them which is why I came here, trying to be responsible lol. So yeah, FIRST I plan on picking up supplies, a tank, and all that good stuff so I'll be well prepared when I actually get my dragon. Anyway, I'm here to learn, I have no idea what questions to ask so if anyone here reads this that could give me some advice on things to look out for, things to be prepared for, etc. it'd be greatly appreciated by not only me but the adorable little dragon I attach myself to Basically just tell me what you'd want to know if you were about to get your first dragon with no prior experience in caring for one.

 

[Keith J]

K actually I think I'm learning a pretty good bit just from reading other posts, lol so never mind the help I think I'm good. Although, a tip on daily care habbits would help. I work during the day from 9-6 but there's ALWAYS someone there in case it'll need feeding or whatever...

 

[FabGyrl]

Welcome! Your right when you say that you can learn a whole lot by just browsing the forums... The care sheets and articles are great too! Should you have any questions just ask!! The people here are great!!
Kristy

 

[beardiekid 97]

im a new person here and a first time beardie lover. please send some tips.

 

[Catalyst]

Things I wish I knew before I brought my guy home:

You'll need a 75g tank or larger for one adult dragon. The recommended minimum floor space for an adult dragon is 6-8 square feet. You can also build a tank yourself for cheaper than you can buy one.

The reptisun 10.0 is the best flourescent UV bulb out there and your dragon needs a spot in the tank where he can get 6" away from it. If you don't have a UV meter you'll need to replace the UV bulb every six months to make sure the UV level meets your dragon's needs. Mercury vapor bulbs are even better, although a bit more expensive.

You don't need a specialty heat bulb - a normal lightbulb or halogen flood light (my preference 'cause it kicks out more heat per watt) does the same job for cheaper.

Babies eat a lot - upwards of 50-100 crickets a day, so make sure you know where to order your bugs from online. It's much cheaper than trying to go through a petstore for live food.

No sand for babies. Use paper towels, shelf liner, or tiles.

Hmm... that's all I can think of at the moment. Feel free to ask any questions you have, we're always glad to help
-- Catalyst