Our campaigns Current campaigns Don't Pet Me: wild animals are not pets Species factsheets Facts about bearded dragons Did you know that bearded dragons have a third eye they use to avoid birds of prey? Read more fascinating facts about these amazing reptiles below. Where are bearded dragons from? Bearded dragons are native to Australia, where they live in dry, rocky, semi-desert environments. They thrive in grasslands, woodlands and scrublands. They are semi-arboreal, meaning they spend time both on the ground and climbing onto branches or rocks. They are solitary animals. Why are they called bearded dragons? Bearded dragons are called that because they can puff out and darken the skin under their throat, making it look like a beard. This “beard” (the expandable throat area) can turn black when they feel threatened, stressed, or are trying to attract a mate. What do bearded dragons eat? Bearded dragons are omnivores. They eat a mix of insects, vegetables, fruits, and occasionally small vertebrates, such as tiny lizards or rodents. They have 80 teeth to allow them to eat both these insects and plants, and they are mildy venomous, which helps them to subdue small prey. In the wild, bearded dragons get much of their hydration from eating plants and insects, which contain water. In captivity, they rely entirely on what their owners provide. Dehydration in captive bearded dragons is a commonly reported and potentially life-threatening issue. Their diet changes as they grow: juveniles need more protein from insects, while adults eat mostly plants with fewer insects. Meeting a bearded dragon’s dietary needs in captivity can be challenging. Owners often fail to balance protein and plant matter, ensuring proper calcium intake, and avoiding unsafe foods. These issues can lead to health problems, such as obesity and metabolic issues. Are bearded dragons suitable to be kept as pets? No, bearded dragons are wild animals that can suffer in captive environments and should not be bought as pets. While they are often touted as one of the easier reptiles to keep in a captive environment, this can lead to people underestimating the complexity of their care needs, leading to bearded dragons’ suffering. Bearded dragons can also live between 10-15 years and some underestimate the long-term commitment involved. In their native habitat of the Australian outback, bearded dragons roam large areas, bask on rocks, dig burrows, hunt freely, and interact with a wide range of environmental stimuli. A tank, no matter how well set up, is a very simplified and unnatural version of that world, where behaviours are restricted. Bearded dragons are also ectothermic, meaning they depend on external heat sources, such as sunlight, to regulate their body temperature. In captivity, their enclosure must include a basking area for warmth as well as cooler zones where they can retreat. When housed indoors, they also require an artificial UVB (ultraviolet) light source. Without UVB exposure, bearded dragons cannot produce vitamin D efficiently, which prevents them from absorbing calcium and can lead to serious health problems. The fact that we must artificially replicate their fundamental needs highlights that they are not suited for captivity. Do bearded dragons have a third eye? Yes, bearded dragons do have a “third eye,” called the parietal eye. It’s a small, light-sensitive organ located on the top of their head, between their two regular eyes. This eye cannot see images, but can detect light. Why do bearded dragons bop their head? Bearded dragons bob their heads as a form of communication. It can signal dominance, submission, mating interest, or stress. When being kept in captive environments, improper care, changes in environment, or perceived threats can cause head bobbing. Why do bearded dragons close their eyes in captivity? Bearded dragons that frequently close their eyes and for a prolonged period of time can be stressed, uncomfortable, or experiencing health issues. Bearded dragons may close their eyes when they are “petted” on the head. This is not a sign of enjoyment, but rather a protective reflex. If they feel threatened or uncomfortable, closing their eyes can be a way of “shutting out” the stimulus. Bright lights, improper UVB, or incorrect temperatures may cause them to close their eyes more often. Are bearded dragons smart? In the wild, bearded dragons demonstrate problem-solving, observational learning, and behavioral flexibility that help them thrive in Australia’s harsh desert ecosystems. For example, bearded dragons use their parietal eye (third eye) to detect shadows and overhead movement, helping them avoid birds of prey. They also remember basking spots, safe shelters, and food-rich areas, returning to them repeatedly. Manage Cookie Preferences