Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have a Leo and i am thinking of buying a Bearded dragon. I will be purchasing a 20g tank but im unsure as to what else they need. I know i need a UTH and also a UV lamp but how does this UV lamp work? Do you leave it on all day and switch off at night. How long do you leave the basking lamp on for? As i will be buying a 4 month old Beardy what do they eat at that age and when is it best to change there diet to ''grown up'' food

Thanks

I suggest doing more research on bearded dragon care.

You will be better off buying a 35-40 gal long tank, or breeder, a 20 gal is practically too small already for a 4 month old dragon.

You do not need a under tank heater at all, but you do need a separate UVB light and a basking light. Both should be on for 12-14 hours a day. Buying a standard indoor timer is the best way to ensure lights come on and off at regular times.
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PHLdyPayne

But if i dont use a UTH where will the heat source come from at night?

The dragon will be fine without a heat source at night as long as the temps don't drop below 65F max. If you have heat on them 24/7 there bodies can not sleep or relax because there matabolism will constintly run. BD's also prefer there heat from above aslong as you have a basking spot such as a piece of slate or tile the rock will hold heat that they can use during the night.. Do away with the 20gal tank if your only keeping 1 dragon go with a 40gal breeder or something 4 feet long 2feet wide 18 high. Your basking and UVB lights should be on together and off together. Keep the basking light on one side of the tank. I suggest buing a book about them before you make the leap into buying a BD. It's only fair to them. Right?!