Sand as a substrate?

[taniacrowe]

is sand actually dangerous for beardies, or is it mostly a concern for juveniles? Is there a danger of her eating the sand? Is there a danger of bacteria spreading throughout the whole habitat? Advice?

 

[KarrieRee]

is sand actually dangerous for beardies, or is it mostly a concern for juveniles? Is there a danger of her eating the sand? Is there a danger of bacteria spreading throughout the whole habitat? Advice?

Sand is not advised on this board normally - especially for babies - and yes dragons will eat the sand if they are lacking other nutrients - not all dragons eat sand but it still runs a risk for them not intentionally eating it especially if they are being fed on it -- and yes bacteria does harbor there - I myself wouldnt use it but that is up to you -I did have sand at the very beginning and it was a mess-- there are better alternatives that are more sanitary like textured NON adhesive shelf liner or ceramic slated tile - they all have drawbacks like the tile is hard on the joints but if enough climbing decor is is the tank it can keep them off of it -- couches for dragons - hammocks -- dragon beds etc

 

[fcooper]

Sand is very bad for beardies. It can cause impaction, theyre not used to walking on sand all thw time, and it grows bacteria and stuff very easily, it's gross. Sand is VERY bad for them.