August 18, 2024

Is a Witblits Bearded Dragon the Right Pet for You?

Bearded dragons are one of the most popular reptile pets due to their calm nature, unique appearance, and ease of care. Among the various types of bearded dragons, the Witblits morph stands out for its distinct lack of pattern and vibrant coloration. This morph, while relatively new, has quickly gained popularity among reptile enthusiasts. In this guide, we will delve into the world of Witblits bearded dragons, exploring their characteristics, and care requirements, and answering some frequently asked questions.

The Witblits bearded dragon is a specific morph of the Pogona vitticeps species, commonly known as the central bearded dragon. The term “Witblits” is derived from Afrikaans, meaning “white lightning,” which aptly describes the morph’s striking, patternless appearance. 

Unlike other bearded dragon morphs that exhibit various patterns and colors, Witblits bearded dragons are known for their smooth, uniform coloration, ranging from pale white to soft pastel shades. This unique appearance makes them a favorite among breeders and hobbyists alike.

Are Witblits Bearded Dragons Good Pets?

Witblits bearded dragons, like other bearded dragon morphs, make excellent pets, especially for those interested in reptiles. Their calm and docile temperament makes them easy to handle, even for beginners. Additionally, their unique appearance adds an aesthetic appeal that many reptile enthusiasts find irresistible. Witblits bearded dragons are known for their inquisitive nature, often interacting with their owners and showing curiosity about their surroundings. This level of engagement makes them not only a pet but also a fascinating companion.

Furthermore, Witblits bearded dragons require relatively simple care compared to other reptiles. Their dietary needs are straightforward, and they thrive in a well-maintained environment with the proper temperature, humidity, and lighting. As long as their basic needs are met, these dragons can live long, healthy lives, providing years of companionship.

Appearance and Characteristics of Witblits Bearded Dragons

The Witblits bearded dragon is primarily distinguished by its lack of patterns, a feature that sets it apart from other morphs. While other bearded dragons may exhibit stripes, spots, or other intricate designs on their scales, the Witblits morph is smooth and uniform in color. This lack of pattern gives them a clean and elegant appearance.

In terms of coloration, Witblit bearded dragons typically display shades of white, cream, light yellow, or pastel hues. These colors can vary slightly depending on factors like genetics, diet, and environmental conditions. Their eyes are usually bright and expressive, adding to their overall appeal.

Witblits bearded dragons, like other bearded dragons, have a triangular-shaped head, spiny scales along their sides, and a beard-like structure under their chin that can puff up when they feel threatened or excited. This beard is one of the most distinctive features of all bearded dragons, giving them their name.

Witblits Bearded Dragon Size

Witblits bearded dragons, like their counterparts, are medium-sized reptiles. Adult Witblits bearded dragons typically reach a length of 18 to 24 inches, including their tail. The tail alone can account for more than half of their total length.

In terms of weight, a healthy adult Witblits bearded dragon usually weighs between 350 to 600 grams. Males tend to be slightly larger and more robust than females, although this can vary depending on genetics and diet.

Their growth rate is relatively fast during the first year of life, with most reaching their full size by 12 to 18 months. Proper nutrition and care during this growth phase are crucial to ensuring they develop strong bones and a healthy body.

Morph of Witblits Bearded Dragon

The Witblits morph is unique among bearded dragons due to its lack of pattern. This trait is recessive, meaning that both parents must carry the Witblits gene for their offspring to display the characteristic patternless appearance. Breeding for the Witblits morph can be challenging, as it requires careful selection of breeding pairs to ensure the desired traits are passed on.

In addition to the patternless body, some Witblits bearded dragons may exhibit slight variations in coloration, ranging from pale white to soft pastels. These color variations can make each individual dragon unique, even within the same morph.

Witblits bearded dragons are often bred with other morphs to create new and exciting combinations. For example, when bred with a hypo or trans morph, the resulting offspring can display even more striking and unusual colors. However, it’s essential to work with reputable breeders who prioritize the health and well-being of the animals.

What are the Feeding Habits of Witblits Bearded Dragons?

Witblits bearded dragons have similar dietary needs to other bearded dragon morphs. They are omnivores, meaning they require a balanced diet of both animal and plant matter.

Animal Matter

In the wild, bearded dragons primarily feed on insects, small vertebrates, and other invertebrates. In captivity, their diet should consist of a variety of insects such as crickets, mealworms, dubia roaches, and superworms. It’s important to gut-load these insects, meaning feeding them nutritious food before offering them to your dragon, to ensure they provide the necessary vitamins and minerals. Additionally, dusting the insects with calcium and vitamin D3 supplements is crucial to prevent metabolic bone disease, a common ailment in captive reptiles.

Plant Matter

Witblits bearded dragons also require a variety of leafy greens and vegetables. Some good options include collard greens, mustard greens, dandelion greens, squash, bell peppers, and carrots. Fruits can be offered occasionally as treats, but they should not make up a large portion of the diet due to their high sugar content. Blueberries, strawberries, and melons are some safe fruit options.

Feeding Schedule

Juvenile bearded dragons should be fed multiple times a day, focusing more on protein-rich insects to support their rapid growth. As they mature, their diet should shift towards more plant matter, with adults typically being fed insects once a day or every other day, and vegetables daily. Fresh water should always be available, although bearded dragons often get most of their hydration from their food.

What is the Lifespan of Witblits Bearded Dragons?

With proper care, Witblits bearded dragons can live between 10 to 15 years in captivity, although some have been known to live even longer. Their lifespan is influenced by various factors, including diet, habitat, and overall health. Regular veterinary check-ups, a proper diet, and a clean environment are key to ensuring a long and healthy life for your Witblits bearded dragon.

It’s important to note that bearded dragons, including the Witblits morph, are prone to certain health issues such as metabolic bone disease, respiratory infections, and parasites. Early detection and treatment of these conditions are crucial to prolonging your dragon’s lifespan. Regular monitoring of their behavior, eating habits, and physical condition can help catch any potential health problems early.

How Do You Take Care of a Witblits Bearded Dragon?

Taking care of a Witblits bearded dragon requires a commitment to meeting their specific needs. Here’s a comprehensive guide to caring for your Witblits bearded dragon:

1. Enclosure

A spacious enclosure is essential for your Witblits bearded dragon. A 40-gallon tank is the minimum size for an adult, but larger is always better. The enclosure should have a secure lid to prevent escape and proper ventilation.

2. Substrate

The substrate is the material that lines the bottom of the enclosure. For Witblits bearded dragons, it’s best to avoid loose substrates like sand, as these can cause impaction if ingested. Instead, opt for reptile carpets, paper towels, or tile.

3. Lighting

Proper lighting is crucial for the health of your bearded dragon. They require both UVB and UVA light to synthesize vitamin D3, which is essential for calcium absorption. A UVB bulb should be on for 10-12 hours a day, and it’s recommended to replace the bulb every 6 months, as the UV output decreases over time.

4. Temperature

Bearded dragons are ectothermic, meaning they rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. The enclosure should have a temperature gradient with a basking spot at 95-110°F and a cooler side around 75-85°F. At night, the temperature can drop to 65-75°F.

5. Humidity

Witblits bearded dragons thrive in a low-humidity environment, with levels between 30-40%. High humidity can lead to respiratory infections, so it’s important to monitor the levels with a hygrometer.

6. Diet

As mentioned earlier, a balanced diet of insects and vegetables is essential. Additionally, providing a shallow dish of fresh water daily and misting the enclosure lightly can help with hydration.

7. Handling

Witblits bearded dragons are generally docile and enjoy being handled. However, it’s important to approach them gently and support their body fully while holding them. Regular handling can help them become more accustomed to human interaction.

8. Health Monitoring

Regular check-ups with a reptile veterinarian are important to ensure your bearded dragon stays healthy. Keep an eye out for signs of illness, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, abnormal stool, or difficulty breathing, and seek veterinary care if needed.

FAQs

Why do bearded dragons turn Witblits?

The term “turning Witblits” might be a bit misleading, as Witblit’s bearded dragons are not a result of a change in an existing dragon but are rather born with the specific Witblits morph. This morph is due to a recessive genetic trait, meaning that a bearded dragon must inherit the Witblits gene from both parents to display the characteristic patternless appearance. Therefore, a bearded dragon does not “turn” Witblits; it is either born with this trait or not.

Are Witblit bearded dragons real?

Yes, Witblit bearded dragons are very real. They are a recognized morph of the Pogona vitticeps species, known for their unique lack of patterns and smooth, uniform coloration. The Witblits morph has been established through selective breeding by reptile enthusiasts who aim to produce bearded dragons with this distinct appearance. They are a legitimate and sought-after morph in the reptile community.

Can bearded dragons have Witblits cabbage?

While cabbage is safe for bearded dragons to eat in moderation, there is no specific type of cabbage known as “Witblits cabbage.” However, when feeding your bearded dragon cabbage, it’s important to do so sparingly, as cabbage contains goitrogens, which can interfere with thyroid function if consumed in large amounts. Always offer a variety of leafy greens and vegetables to ensure a balanced diet.

Conclusion

Witblits bearded dragons are a unique and fascinating morph of the popular Pogona vitticeps species. Their distinct appearance, characterized by a lack of patterns and smooth coloration, makes them a standout choice for reptile enthusiasts. As with any pet, proper care is essential to ensuring their health and longevity. From providing a suitable environment to offering a balanced diet, taking care of a Witblits bearded dragon can be a rewarding experience. Whether you’re a seasoned reptile keeper or a beginner, the Witblits bearded dragon can make a wonderful, engaging companion.

Olivia Eva
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