Exploring Types of Bearded Dragons Varieties

“The variety of shapes and colors which delight us aesthetically and magnetically draw us toward them are reminders of an inner world of unique thoughts and feelings.”

Bearded dragons, with their exotic appearance and captivating personalities, have become popular pets among reptile enthusiasts. These fascinating creatures come in a variety of species and subspecies, each with its own unique characteristics and charm. From the Inland Bearded Dragon to the Eastern, Central, and Western varieties, the world of bearded dragons offers a fascinating exploration into the diverse wonders of reptilian life.

Key Takeaways:

• Bearded dragons are captivating reptiles that come in a variety of species and subspecies.
• Understanding the different types of bearded dragons can help reptile enthusiasts choose the perfect companion for their home.
• Each species has its own unique characteristics, including physical appearance, habitat preferences, and feeding habits.
• The Inland, Eastern, Central, and Western bearded dragons are the main species, each with its own distinct features.
• Exploring the diverse world of bearded dragon varieties can be a fascinating journey for reptile lovers and pet owners alike.

The Inland Bearded Dragon

The Inland Bearded Dragon, also known as the Central or Yellow-headed Bearded Dragon, is the most common and widely kept species in captivity. It has a yellowish-brown coloration with subtle patterns and can grow up to 24 inches in length. Inland Bearded Dragons are native to the central and western parts of Australia and inhabit arid and semi-arid regions such as deserts, grasslands, and woodlands. They have a calm and docile nature, making them a popular choice for pet owners. The Inland Bearded Dragon is an opportunistic eater, consuming a mix of insects and vegetation.

The Eastern Bearded Dragon

The Eastern Bearded Dragon, also known as the Common Bearded Dragon, is a fascinating reptile with distinct characteristics. It has a brownish coloration with darker patterns and markings, giving it a unique appearance. With a triangular-shaped head and a stockier body compared to other species, the Eastern Bearded Dragon stands out among its counterparts.

Native to the eastern parts of Australia, including Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria, the Eastern Bearded Dragon can grow up to 20 inches in length. It primarily inhabits woodlands, forests, and coastal regions, thriving in diverse environments.

Like other bearded dragons, the Eastern Bearded Dragon is a diurnal species, meaning it is active during the day. This behavior allows it to bask under the warm sunlight, regulating its body temperature and promoting overall well-being. To ensure proper calcium absorption, Eastern Bearded Dragons rely on both natural sunlight and artificial UVB lighting.

The diet of the Eastern Bearded Dragon consists of a variety of food sources. They have a diverse palate, consuming insects, vegetation, and even small vertebrates. This flexibility in their diet ensures they receive essential nutrients for their growth and development.

If you’re considering a bearded dragon as a pet, the Eastern Bearded Dragon is a popular choice. With its captivating appearance, diurnal nature, and varied diet, it offers reptile enthusiasts a unique and rewarding pet ownership experience.

The Central Bearded Dragon

The Central Bearded Dragon, also known as the Dwarf Bearded Dragon, is smaller in size compared to other species. It has a compact body and a darker coloration with tan or orange markings. Central Bearded Dragons can grow up to 12 inches in length and are native to the central parts of Australia, particularly arid regions such as Queensland, Northern Territory, and South Australia. They are well-adapted to the harsh desert environment and have a calm and docile nature.

Central Bearded Dragons are fascinating reptiles that make excellent pets for reptile enthusiasts. Their smaller size makes them suitable for those with limited space, such as apartment dwellers.

“Central Bearded Dragons are like little dragons from a fantasy world. Despite their small size, they have a captivating presence and can quickly win over anyone’s heart.” – Reptile Enthusiast

These bearded dragons are known for their friendly temperament and adaptability to captivity. They are relatively easy to care for and require a habitat with proper temperature gradients and a UVB light source for their well-being.

The diet of Central Bearded Dragons consists of a combination of insects, vegetation, and occasional small vertebrates. This variety in their diet helps provide the necessary nutrients for their growth and overall health.

To help you understand the unique features and characteristics of the Central Bearded Dragon, here is a table summarizing some key details:

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced reptile owner, the Central Bearded Dragon is sure to be a delightful and engaging pet. They offer a small and manageable size while still providing all the charm and personality of their larger counterparts.

Next, let’s take a closer look at the Western Bearded Dragon, another fascinating species in the world of bearded dragons.

The Western Bearded Dragon

The Western Bearded Dragon, also known as Mitchells Bearded Dragon, is a fascinating reptile with a unique coloration. Its light tan or cream-colored body is adorned with darker orange or brown markings, creating a striking appearance. This species of bearded dragon stands out with its longer spikes compared to other varieties, adding to its allure. With an impressive length of up to 20 inches, the Western Bearded Dragon is a captivating sight to behold.

Native to the western parts of Australia, including Western Australia and the Northern Territory, Western Bearded Dragons thrive in diverse habitats. They are commonly found in sandy deserts, grasslands, and rocky outcrops, blending in seamlessly with their surroundings. Despite their distinct appearance, these dragons share the calm and docile demeanor of their counterparts. This makes them an excellent choice for reptile enthusiasts seeking a peaceful and low-maintenance companion.

Western Bearded Dragons have a varied diet that includes a combination of insects, vegetation, and occasional small vertebrates. Their opportunistic eating habits ensure they receive a balanced mix of nutrients from both animal and plant sources. This dietary flexibility allows them to adapt to their natural environment and thrive in captivity.

To give you a better understanding of the Western Bearded Dragon’s unique features and characteristics, here is a comprehensive table:

Now that you have explored the Western Bearded Dragon, you can appreciate its distinct beauty and unique traits. This species offers reptile enthusiasts a captivating addition to their collection, with its striking appearance and calm nature. Whether you prefer observing their graceful movements or interacting with them as pets, Western Bearded Dragons are sure to provide endless fascination.

Bearded Dragon Morphs and Colors

In addition to the different species of bearded dragons, there are also various morphs and colors within each species. Bearded dragon morphs refer to different genetic variations that result in unique physical traits and appearances. These morphs, along with different color variations, add to the diversity and appeal of bearded dragons as pets.

Some popular bearded dragon morphs include:

1. Leatherback Bearded Dragon: The leatherback bearded dragon is characterized by its smoother scales, which give it a unique texture. These dragons are known for their striking appearance and are highly sought after by reptile enthusiasts.
2. Hypomelanistic Bearded Dragon: The hypomelanistic bearded dragon exhibits lighter colors and patterns compared to other morphs. These dragons often have a more vibrant and pastel-like appearance, making them a favorite among collectors.
3. Dunner Bearded Dragon: The dunner bearded dragon is known for its distinctive pattern of stripes and bars on the back. This morph creates an eye-catching visual effect and adds a touch of uniqueness to the dragon’s overall appearance.

These popular bearded dragon morphs are just a few examples of the wide range of genetic variations that can occur within the species. Each morph offers its own aesthetic appeal and charm, allowing reptile enthusiasts to find a dragon that suits their personal preferences.

With their diverse morphs and colors, bearded dragons make fascinating and visually captivating pets. Whether you’re drawn to the smooth scales of the leatherback, the lighter hues of the hypomelanistic, or the unique pattern of the dunner, there’s a morph out there to suit every reptile lover’s taste. These variations showcase the beauty and intricacies of nature, making bearded dragons a joy to observe and care for.

Rare and Unusual Bearded Dragon Morphs

In addition to the common morphs, there are also rare and unusual bearded dragon morphs that grab attention with their unique appearances. These morphs are not widely available in the pet trade and often require specialized care.

Examples of rare morphs include the paradox bearded dragon, which develops unique adult patterns in the first few months after hatching, the silkback bearded dragon, which lacks scales and requires meticulous care, and the zero bearded dragon, which has an absence of color and pattern. These rare morphs showcase incredible patterns, colors, and physical characteristics that set them apart from more common morphs.

Let’s take a closer look at each of these rare bearded dragon morphs:

Paradox Bearded Dragon

The paradox bearded dragon is a fascinating morph that displays a distinct pattern known as paradoxing. This pattern develops as the dragon grows and can vary greatly between individuals, creating a truly unique appearance. Paradox bearded dragons can have patches of different colors, irregular markings, or even unusual scale patterns. The paradoxing phenomenon makes each paradox bearded dragon a one-of-a-kind reptile.

Silkback Bearded Dragon

The silkback bearded dragon is a rare morph characterized by its lack of scales. Instead of the usual rough and bumpy skin, silkbacks have smooth and silky skin. This unique attribute requires careful attention to their environment and care routine, as they are more prone to skin injuries and dehydration. Silkback bearded dragons are sought after by reptile enthusiasts for their striking appearance, resembling miniature dragons from myths and legends.

Zero Bearded Dragon

The zero bearded dragon is a visually striking morph that lacks pigmentation, resulting in a complete absence of color and pattern. These dragons have a white or cream-colored appearance throughout their entire body, making them resemble albinos. The zero morph is unique in its simplicity, showcasing the pure beauty of these reptiles without any distractions from striking colors or patterns. Because of their lack of pigmentation, zero bearded dragons require special care to protect their sensitive skin from excessive sunlight exposure.

These rare bearded dragon morphs add a touch of exclusivity and wonder to the world of bearded dragon enthusiasts. Their unique appearances and genetic variations make them highly sought after by reptile keepers looking to add a rare gem to their collection.

Keep in mind that owning and caring for these rare morphs requires a higher level of commitment and knowledge due to their specific care needs. If you’re considering adding one of these rare bearded dragon morphs to your reptile family, be sure to educate yourself on their care requirements to provide them with a happy and healthy life.

Fascinating Facts About Bearded Dragons

Bearded dragons are truly remarkable reptiles, known for their distinct characteristics and intriguing behaviors. Let’s dive into some fascinating facts about these captivating creatures.

Unique Physical Feature: The Beard

One of the most distinctive features of bearded dragons is the beard of spikes located underneath their chin. When they feel threatened or want to appear more intimidating, they can puff up their beard, making it look larger and more prominent.

Acrobatic Climbers: Basking in the Limelight

Bearded dragons are excellent climbers. You can often find them basking on tree branches, rocks, or other elevated surfaces. They enjoy soaking up the warmth of the sun, regulating their body temperature, and enhancing their overall well-being.

Omnivorous Diet: A Balanced Meal Plan

Bearded dragons have a diverse diet, classified as omnivorous. They consume both plant matter and insects to meet their nutritional needs. Their diet typically includes a variety of leafy greens, vegetables, fruits, and small insects. This balanced meal plan ensures they receive essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins for optimal health.

Longevity: Companions for Years

With proper care and nutrition, bearded dragons can thrive for many years. Their lifespan in captivity can range from 10 to 15 years, making them long-term companions for reptile enthusiasts. Providing them with a suitable habitat, a nutritious diet, and regular veterinary check-ups can contribute to their overall well-being and longevity.

Bearded Dragon Lifespan Comparison

Note: Lifespan may vary based on individual care, genetics, and environmental factors.

Conclusion

Bearded dragons are fascinating reptiles with a wide range of species, morphs, and colors. Understanding the different types of bearded dragons can help reptile enthusiasts choose the perfect companion for their home. Whether it’s the Inland Bearded Dragon, Eastern Bearded Dragon, Central Bearded Dragon, or Western Bearded Dragon, each species offers its own unique characteristics and appeal.

From the common to the rare and unusual morphs, bearded dragons showcase a diverse and fascinating world for reptile enthusiasts to explore. The varied bearded dragon varieties, including the Inland Bearded Dragon’s calm and docile nature, the Eastern Bearded Dragon’s distinctive triangular-shaped head, the Central Bearded Dragon’s adaptation to harsh desert environments, and the Western Bearded Dragon’s light tan coloration with darker markings, provide an array of options for reptile lovers.

With proper care and nutrition, these scaly companions can bring joy and fascination to any reptile lover’s life. Whether it’s observing their unique behaviors, providing a nutritious diet of insects and vegetation, or providing the right environment for their well-being, bearded dragons make excellent long-term companions. So, whether you’re a seasoned reptile enthusiast or a beginner, the diverse bearded dragon species and varieties offer a captivating world of discovery.

Source Links

• https://www.pinterest.com/ideas/bearded-dragon-colors/921843154351/
• https://exopetguides.com/bearded-dragon/types-of-bearded-dragons/
• https://isopodsandmore.com/what-are-the-different-species-of-bearded-dragons/