A beard that turns black
When it is alarmed or showing off, it puffs out the spiny skin of its throat, which can turn jet black.
Lizards · Time every day
Bearded dragon
Lizard · from the deserts of Australia
A stocky, sandy-coloured lizard with a broad triangular head, rows of soft spikes along its sides and a spiny throat.
- Size
- 40 to 60cm long, with the tail
- Lives for
- 10 to 15 years
- Suits
- Beginners willing to set up a proper heated home
Scuttles after you, then stops to look. Move your pointer and see.
Good to know
Six things about the bearded dragon
It waves
It lifts a front leg and circles it slowly in the air. It seems to mean: I see you, and I am no threat.
It nods
Males bob their heads up and down quickly to show who is in charge.
A third eye
A tiny light-sensing spot on top of its head detects shadows, such as a bird passing overhead.
It flattens to sunbathe
It spreads its ribs to make itself as flat and wide as a pancake, to soak up more heat.
The friendliest lizard
Most are calm, rarely bite and will sit on a shoulder. It is the most popular pet lizard in Britain.
The real thing
Photos of the bearded dragon
Photos are from Wikimedia Commons, used under the free licences shown. They have been resized, and cropped where they appear in link previews.
Looking after one
It needs a tank at least 120cm long, with a basking spot of about 40 degrees, a cool end and a strong ultraviolet lamp. Feed live insects dusted with calcium, and fresh greens every day.
Before you get one
A bearded dragon is the best lizard to start with, but the tank, lamps and live food cost more than the animal. Lamps need replacing every six to twelve months.
Keep going