If you’re a big fan of Citrus bearded dragons, you may have seen citrus fruits, also known as mandarins or yellow bearded dragons. These brilliant scorpions are very eye-catching because of their bright colors (although they can be neutral). Both new and inexperienced owners will find this lizard friendly and charming. We explain everything lovers of this species need to know. Maybe a citrus beardy will be your future pet?
Table of Contents
Do Citrus Bearded Dragons Make Good Pets?
Bearded dragons live in their natural habitat in grasslands and savannas throughout Australia. It is currently one of the most popular scorpions among enthusiasts around the world. Among the friendliest reptiles you can choose to have as a pet is the bearded dragon. This is a great first reptile for children until they are mature enough to take care of basic care. The lack of strict environmental standards makes maintenance much easier. You can play with these scorpions on the floor or wear them on your shirt. These lizards are ideal for just about anyone, as long as they can maintain primary care and attach to their whiskers.
Citrus Bearded Dragon Appearance
Citrus Bearded Dragons range in color from bright yellow to light brown. It has a flat body with spines and tubercles running down its neck, legs and sides. The pores on the thighs of the hind legs are more pronounced in males, allowing a clear diagnosis of the penis. Males with more defined heads are usually larger than females, reaching about 24 inches in length at maturity. Females only reach adulthood at 16 to 19 inches long.
How to Take Care of Citrus-Bearded Dragons
Bearded dragons are tropical animals that require special living environments to stay healthy. For example, bearded people can’t make their own calcium, so they get it from supplements and UVB rays. Here we will show you how to arrange your terrarium to make the most of it.
Tank Size
With a maximum length of 24 inches, the Citrus Bearded Dragon’s enclosure should be quite large for its size. Adult bearded dragon tanks require at least 40 gallons of glass. Although they do not climb as well as other reptiles, they like to cling to large branches with tough bark. However, the width of the enclosure should be greater than the height.
Enclosure Decor
Bearded dragons are very alert and curious animals, but sometimes enjoy laziness. So they spend most of the day ducking in their favorite places. However, they can still be found hiding in tree cavities or when they are not tanning. They prefer to snuggle up in dark, small spaces for a restful night’s sleep. You can add decorations or beard-safe plants to give it a little oomph.
Lighting
UVB light is essential for bearded dragons to absorb calcium and vitamin D. You should spend the entire 12 hours with this light on. These lizards do not need light at night, although always make sure the temperature stays above 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
Heating (Temperature & Humidity)
Bears use different types of heat to regulate their body temperature. The preferred temperature range for sunbathing is between 88 degrees Fahrenheit and 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The cold side of the tank should maintain a temperature of 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal humidity range is from 20% to 40%. Although they do not require the same amount of water as other reptiles, adequate moisture promotes healthy skin and shedding. You can get a thermometer and a hydrometer to monitor the cage.
Substrate
The type of substrate you choose is very important in order to create a good environment for your lizard.
Here are a few great options for citrus beardies:
- Reptile carpet
- Newspaper
- Bare bottom
Sand is always touted as a good substrate for bearded people, but this is not true. These tiny particles digest food and can cause severe intestinal blockage and death.
Tank Recommendation
| Tank Type: | 40-gallon glass enclosure |
| Lighting: | Basking lamp |
| Heating: | Heating pad/ lamp |
| Best Substrate: | Reptile carpet, newspaper, bare bottom |
Feeding Your Citrus Bearded Dragon
As omnivores, bearded animals need to consume both plant and animal materials to survive. They feed primarily on insects trapped in their guts, but also enjoy the greenery.
Juveniles eat as much food as they can each day during the growing period, mainly insects.
As they grow, the amount of feeding can be reduced to once every two-3 days. This is because the only food a fully developed bearded dragon needs is vegetables. As a result, you get water, vitamins, and minerals from your food.
Most commonly, you can feed your beardie the following insects:
- Crickets
- Mealworms
- Superworms
- Dubia cockroaches
You can also feed them this list of beardie-safe plant materials:
- Leafy green veggies
- Apples
- Squash
- Bell peppers
- Watermelon
Never feed your bearded dog wild bugs, even if you are trying to cut costs. Your lizard is not worth the risk of potential contamination from these insects. Fireflies and other glowing insects are very poisonous.
Diet Summary
| Fruits | 5% of diet |
| Insects | 25% of diet–large insects |
| Vegetables | 70% of diet |
| Supplements Required | Calcium |
Citrus Bearded Dragon Lifespan
Citrus-bearded dragons have a good lifespan, ranging from 10 to 15 years. They usually experience some health problems that shorten their life span, but they need the right environment to stay healthy.
Citrus Bearded Dragon Price
Prices of citrus bearded dragons vary widely depending on factors such as quality, age, and color. The price of a fully-grown bearded dragon can be hefty, but young bearded dragons are often less expensive.
Breeder:
Citrus beards from respectable breeders range from $150 to $1,000. Age, quality, and fertility rate are some of the variables that affect the overall cost of beards.
Asylum/Adoption:
Bearded dragons can also be found in shelters and shelters. If you decide to adopt, you can spend anywhere from $40 to $100.
