Reptile & Amphibian Forums

ok here as it goes:
Im a 13 year old and have always loved herps. I have been looking into finnaly acquiring a lizard. I am pretty sure a bearded is right for me.
Now i have some questions:
#1: Is a 35 gallon tank 2 small 4 a beardie? a place sells them for under 30$
#2: Would it be better to buy or breed my own crickets?
#3: Do you know of any high quality, fairly inexpensive breeders?(I have a slow but steady income, so no need 2 worry)I really like the more "exotic" colors with variety, were it has mixes like i.e.: red with black stripes
#4: How long are you supposed to handle a beardie? I would like to chill out with my new pet about everyday, to help it bcome docile.

Thanks everyone!
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Nic
if you want to contact me: noseguardnoms@hotmail.com
Email me if you want to give me any more info

#1: Is a 35 gallon tank 2 small 4 a beardie? a place sells them for under 30$
**An adult beardie needs a 55 gallon tank , minimum.

#2: Would it be better to buy or breed my own crickets?
**Sure it would, if you can pull it off.

#3: Do you know of any high quality, fairly inexpensive breeders?(I have a slow but steady income, so no need 2 worry)I really like the more "exotic" colors with variety, were it has mixes like i.e.: red with black stripes
** Red beardeds are not inexpensive anywhere. If you buy online ask for pics of the parents. I've seen many "red" in the classified adds that are about as far from red as you can get.

#4: How long are you supposed to handle a beardie? I would like to chill out with my new pet about everyday, to help it bcome docile.
The rule is not to handle them right away (give them a week to settle in), but I always have with no problems. You want to start handling ASAP and often.
Don't get one younger then 6 weeks or 6". The bigger the better for a newbie.
Read care sheets to make sure you can care for it properly.

Check out:
Beardiecrazy.com
beginnersbasics.com
Beautifuldragons.com
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TheClassyLizard

You can also use a 40-gal breeder tank - have seen them anywhere from $75-$90.

Good luck!