Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I've heard from several breeders, and herps in the bio dept at my university that sand is not a suitable substrate because the fine particles can clump to cause impaction, and to use the walnut shell instead which is what I use. However I've read here that many of you dont recommend the walnut shell but to use sand - Now I'm just confused.

Also, how can I get my 6 month male dragon interested in pellets? I've got the Kaytee ones (red and green little balls), I soak them in fruit juice and mix them with his veg, but all he seems to do is kick them all over the tank - lots of cleanup! Any suggestions?

I'll post a pic as soon as I figure out how to.

Thanks, Ross

1.0 Bearded Dragon (Fuego)
2.1 Roommates (required more cleaning up after than the dragon)

I used crushed walnut shell for about a year, once my beardie had reached full size. He was only fed in a dish, however. He had lost interest in crickets and so there was no worry of him eating substrate while chasing crickets. When I did feed him superworms, they were either hand-feed or put in the dish and monitored carefully until he had eaten them.

I have since switched to shelf liner just because it is much easier to maintain a clean environment.

I never had any problems with the crushed walnut, but I took many precautions. If you decide to use it, I would suggest doing the same.

My favorite is shelf liner, though! And I would recommend it to anyone.
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1.0 Bearded Dragon - Telamon
0.1 House Cat - St. Stephen

1 Saltwater Aquarium
1 Freshwater Aquarium

Hi
i used wasched playsand with good results.
alomost 4 years i used it now .
i used heated 350 degreemand cocodiose free also the grains r round shape and not have sharp edges,
not ever sand is the same.
walnut is not good also very sharp.
byeeeeeeeeeee