July 8, 2024

Know The Facts About Orange Bearded Dragon

Orange bearded dragons are a captivating variation of the central bearded dragon, known for their vibrant and striking coloration. These reptiles, with their bright hues ranging from a subtle peach to a vivid tangerine, are not only visually stunning but also possess the same friendly and curious nature that makes bearded dragons popular pets. 

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As fascinating members of the reptile family, orange bearded dragons offer a unique appeal to both novice and experienced reptile enthusiasts. Understanding their specific needs and characteristics is essential for providing them with a healthy and enriching environment. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into everything you need to know about orange bearded dragons, from their appearance and care requirements to their feeding habits and lifespan. Whether you’re considering adding one to your collection or simply want to learn more about these beautiful creatures, this guide has you covered.

Are Orange Bearded Dragons Good Pets?

Orange bearded dragons, like their other color morph counterparts, make excellent pets. They are known for their calm demeanor and ease of handling, which makes them ideal for both beginners and experienced reptile keepers. These reptiles are generally friendly and can form bonds with their owners, often showing recognition and even enjoying being held or petted. Their manageable size, docile nature, and engaging behaviors make them a great addition to any household. Additionally, they are relatively low-maintenance compared to other exotic pets, requiring straightforward care routines and feeding schedules.

Appearance and Characteristics of Orange-Bearded Dragons

Vibrant Coloration

Orange bearded dragons are renowned for their stunning and vibrant coloration. The shades of orange can vary widely, from a soft peach hue to a deep, fiery tangerine. This unique color morph is achieved through selective breeding, making each dragon’s coloration distinct and eye-catching.

Distinctive Beard

Like all bearded dragons, the orange morph has a “beard” – a spiky throat pouch that can be expanded and darkened when the dragon feels threatened, excited, or is trying to assert dominance. This beard can turn a darker shade, often black, contrasting beautifully with the orange body.

Robust Build

Orange bearded dragons have a robust and sturdy build. Adults typically reach a length of 18 to 24 inches, including their tail. They possess strong limbs and a broad, flattened body, which is covered in rough, spiky scales, giving them a rugged appearance.

Expressive Eyes

Their large, expressive eyes are another notable characteristic. These eyes are often bright and alert, providing the dragon with excellent vision. The eyes can reflect the dragon’s mood, with some subtle changes in expression that owners often find endearing.

Docile Temperament

Beyond their striking appearance, orange bearded dragons are known for their docile and friendly temperament. They are generally easy to handle, making them suitable pets for both beginners and experienced reptile enthusiasts. Their calm and curious nature allows them to interact well with their owners, often enjoying gentle handling and exploration outside their enclosure.

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Orange Bearded Dragon Size

Orange bearded dragons, like other bearded dragon morphs, generally reach an adult size of about 18 to 24 inches in length, including their tail. They are considered medium-sized lizards, making them manageable pet for most households. Hatchlings start off at a mere 4 inches but grow rapidly during their first year. By the time they reach adulthood, they have a sturdy, robust build with strong limbs and a powerful tail that can be as long as their body.

Their size makes them easy to handle and house. An appropriately sized enclosure for an adult bearded dragon is typically a 40-gallon tank, though larger enclosures are always better to provide ample space for activity and enrichment.

Morph of Orange Bearded Dragon

The term “morph” refers to the different color variations and patterns that can be bred in captivity. The orange bearded dragon is a specific morph bred for its striking coloration. Morphs are created through selective breeding, where reptiles with desirable traits are paired to produce offspring that exhibit those characteristics. In the case of the orange bearded dragon, breeders have focused on enhancing the vibrant orange coloration over generations.

There are several types of orange morphs, including hypo orange, which has reduced melanin and appears brighter; leatherback orange, which has smoother scales; and citrus orange, known for its intense, almost neon coloration. Each morph has its unique appeal and can vary in shade and pattern, making each orange bearded dragon unique.

How Long Do Orange Bearded Dragons Live?

Orange bearded dragons, like other bearded dragons, have a lifespan that can range from 8 to 12 years when properly cared for, though some can live even longer with optimal care. Their longevity depends on various factors including diet, habitat, healthcare, and genetic factors. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and a suitable living environment are crucial for ensuring a long and healthy life for these reptiles.

How to take care of Orange Bearded Dragon?

Housing

Orange bearded dragons require a well-ventilated enclosure with ample space to move around. A 40-gallon tank is the minimum recommended size for an adult, but larger is always better. The enclosure should include hiding spots, climbing branches, and a basking area with a heat lamp to provide a gradient of temperatures. The basking spot should be around 95-110°F, while the cooler end of the tank should be around 75-85°F. UVB lighting is essential to help them metabolize calcium and prevent metabolic bone disease.

Substrate

Choosing the right substrate is important for their health. Avoid loose substrates like sand, which can cause impaction if ingested. Instead, use reptile carpet, paper towels, or tile, which are easier to clean and safer for your pet.

Diet

A balanced diet is crucial for the health of orange bearded dragons. They are omnivores, meaning they eat both plant and animal matter. A healthy diet includes a variety of insects like crickets, dubia roaches, and mealworms, along with a mix of leafy greens and vegetables. Occasional fruits can be given as treats. It’s important to dust their food with calcium and vitamin D3 supplements to ensure they get the necessary nutrients.

Hydration

While bearded dragons get most of their moisture from their food, it’s important to provide a shallow dish of water in their enclosure. Additionally, misting their enclosure or offering water droplets can help keep them hydrated.

Handling and Socialization

Orange bearded dragons are generally docile and enjoy interaction with their owners. Regular handling helps them become accustomed to human contact and can be a bonding experience. Be gentle when handling, support your body fully, and avoid sudden movements to prevent stress.

Health Care

Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for detecting any health issues early. Bearded dragons can be prone to parasites, respiratory infections, and metabolic bone disease, so keeping an eye on their health and seeking prompt veterinary care when needed is crucial.

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What are the Feeding Habits of Orange Bearded Dragons?

Orange bearded dragons have similar feeding habits to other bearded dragon morphs. As omnivores, their diet should include a variety of insects and plant matter to ensure they receive all necessary nutrients.

Insects

Insects should form a significant part of their diet, especially when they are young. Common choices include crickets, dubia roaches, and mealworms. It’s important to gut-load the insects, which means feeding them nutritious food before offering them to your dragon. This ensures your pet gets the maximum nutritional benefit. Insects should be dusted with calcium and vitamin D3 powder several times a week to prevent deficiencies.

Vegetables and Greens

Vegetables and leafy greens should make up about 20-30% of a juvenile’s diet and around 50-60% of an adult’s diet. Good choices include collard greens, mustard greens, dandelion greens, squash, bell peppers, and carrots. Avoid feeding them spinach or lettuce as these can cause health issues.

Fruits

Fruits can be offered as occasional treats due to their high sugar content. Suitable fruits include strawberries, blueberries, apples, and mangoes. Always ensure fruits are cut into small, manageable pieces.

Feeding Schedule

Juvenile orange bearded dragons should be fed daily, with a diet consisting of about 80% insects and 20% vegetables. As they mature, the balance shifts to about 20-30% insects and 70-80% vegetables for adults. Feeding them a varied diet helps prevent nutritional deficiencies and keeps them healthy and active.

FAQS

How long do orange bearded dragons live?

With proper care, orange bearded dragons can live between 8 to 12 years, and sometimes longer.

Can orange bearded dragons be housed outdoors?

While they can enjoy supervised outdoor time in a secure area, they should not be permanently housed outdoors due to temperature fluctuations and potential predators.

How often should I clean my orange bearded dragon’s enclosure?

Spot clean daily, and do a thorough cleaning, including replacing the substrate, every 1-2 months.

Can orange bearded dragons cohabit with other bearded dragons?

It is generally not recommended to house bearded dragons together due to territorial behavior and potential aggression.

Conclusion

Orange bearded dragons are not just captivating pets due to their striking coloration, but they also offer a rewarding companionship for reptile enthusiasts. Their vibrant orange hues make them stand out among other bearded dragon morphs, while their docile nature and manageable care requirements make them suitable for both novice and experienced keepers alike. 

Providing a suitable habitat with proper lighting, temperature gradients, and a varied diet ensures their health and longevity. Regular interaction and gentle handling can foster strong bonds with these intelligent reptiles, enhancing the enjoyment of keeping them as pets. Whether you’re drawn to their vibrant appearance or their friendly demeanor, orange bearded dragons are sure to bring color and joy to any household willing to provide them with the care and attention they deserve.

Olivia Eva
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