[Genie Room] Proper Care of Pets - Lizards (Bearded Dragons)

^{(The images used in this story are provided by: Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department's Facebook page)}

Many people adopt reptiles as pets in recent years. The Bearded Dragon is among the most popular species. Although they look stony-faced and a bit frightening, they are actually a kind of gentle animal.

The way of taking care of a bearded dragon is slightly different from that of a furry pet. Genie will share with you the tips on keeping your bearded dragon!

Feeding
1) They eat both insects and plant materials.
2) Make sure the feed is small in size and pay attention to the quantity fed.
3) Foods that are not eaten must be removed daily.

Accommodation
1) Provide your bearded dragon with a large vivarium.
2) There should be a basking area with full spectrum lights with UVB and a cool area that provides hides for the bearded dragon in the vivarium
3) Install hygrometers and thermometers in the vivarium to monitor the humidity and temperature and keep them within the required range.
4) Line the bottom of the vivarium with newspaper, paper towels or coral sand.

Cleaning
1) Wash the food and water dishes daily.
2) Bearded dragons excrete a lot. Spot clean their home regularly.
3) Clean and disinfect the vivarium thoroughly once a month using reptile-safe disinfectant.

Interaction
1) Bearded dragons can live alone and are best by themselves.
2) Once your bearded dragon gets accustomed to you, it actually enjoys sitting on your knee or shoulder.
3) Remember to wash your hands immediately and thoroughly with soap and water after contact with reptiles to avoid being infected with Salmonella.

For details, please visit the website or Facebook post of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department.