Reptile & Amphibian Forums

In about 2-3 months I plan on adding to my collection. I want one of the medium sized, good temperment lizards. I also want a group (2-3), so I have narrowed it down to ackies or beardies. I always like to hear pros and cons from non-biased people who are experienced with both species. Then I will dedicate my research to one species. I will have a cage open up soon at 5Lx2.5Wx3H (lots of room for multiple levels). Besides the obvious species difference, there doesn't seem to be much difference "AS A PET" between the two. According to what I've read:

1) both are very friendly
2) both have fairly simple dietary needs (at least nothing I am not already used to)
3) a group of either would live nicely in my enclosure
4) they are more active and enjoyable in groups

I am not new to herps, and I know I very well may be completely overlooking something very obvious, so please don't yell at me! That's why I ask. I have already been reading on both for around a month, its just time to gather educated opinions. Thanks for your time.

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-Bill

1.0.0 Albino California Kingsnake
0.1.0 Colombian Red Tail Boa
0.1.0 Leucistic Patternless Leopard Gecko
0.0.1 Red Flame Crested Gecko
0.1.0 Orange Crested Gecko
0.0.1 Argentine Black and White Tegu

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But, If you go and read carefully, a bearded dragon care sheet, you will find you can NOT (or SHOULD NOT) keep 3 in an enclosrure. Nor 2 for that matter, all the time.

Only for breeding purposes

Most beardy breeders or owners( I have one) will tell you NOT to keep a pair(male and female ) Or a male and 2 females, together, except to breed if you intend to.

Then seperate. Reason, a male will continually try and breed and not give the females a rest. Shes becomes too stressed. And very well may do poorly.

Two males will fight, and may end in death or injury.

Two females would be the best TRY, but sometimes they even will fight, in which case, you have to be prepared to have a whole other set up with lights so on, as a backup incase.

I have alot of lizards, but have never owned an ackie (they are very cool) But, I can't say how they are together.

You can can more info on Beardies from the BD forum, I must WARN you, they will scream and holler if they hear your even planning to keep any together, hhehehheheeh ! LOL :0)

Good Luck with your decision, Let us know how ya make out!

The Beardies however are a very nice pet!
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Eve