Welcome, this week we will be talking about bearded dragons, with a bearded dragon care guide including a breakdown of what these reptiles are like to have as pets, what they need to live a long healthy life and how you can provide them a great home.
If you’ve been thinking about welcoming a reptile into your home, bearded dragons are one of the most rewarding pets you can own. Friendly, easy to handle, and full of personality, these fascinating lizards are a favourite among reptile lovers. At Toni’s Pet Station in Ningi, you can purchase a healthy bearded dragon for $300, along with everything you need to set up their home, feed them well, and keep them happy for years to come.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about bearded dragon care, including enclosures, feeding, handling, and licensing requirements in Queensland.
1. Why Bearded Dragons Make Great Pets
Bearded dragons, often called “beardies,” are native to Australia and are known for their calm nature and interactive personalities. They’re one of the easiest reptiles for beginners to care for, while still offering plenty of engagement for experienced reptile keepers.
Key reasons they make great pets include:
They are hardy and adapt well to captivity.
They’re generally docile and easy to handle.
They display unique behaviours like arm waving and head bobbing.
They have a lifespan of 8–12 years with proper care.
2. Understanding Bearded Dragons
Before diving into bearded dragon care, it’s helpful to understand their natural background. In the wild, bearded dragons inhabit dry, rocky environments with plenty of sunlight. This means they thrive in warm, well-lit enclosures that mimic these conditions.
Beardies are diurnal, meaning they’re active during the day, and they love basking under heat lamps. They’re also omnivorous, eating a mix of insects, vegetables, and occasional fruits.
3. Bearded Dragon Care Basics – Housing & Setup
A proper enclosure is the foundation of good bearded dragon care. At Toni’s Pet Station, you’ll find enclosures, heating, lighting, and accessories to get your setup right from day one.
Enclosure size:
Juveniles: 90cm long tank
Adults: 120cm+ long tank
Heating & lighting:
UVB lighting is essential for bone health and preventing metabolic bone disease.
Basking spots should reach 38–42°C, with cooler areas around 25°C.
Night temperatures can drop to around 18°C.
Substrate options:
Paper towel or reptile carpet for young dragons.
Washed, fine-grade sand or a mix of sand and soil for adults.
4. Feeding Your Bearded Dragon
Diet is a key part of bearded dragon care, and Toni’s Pet Station stocks live insects, fresh greens, and reptile supplements to make feeding easy.
Juveniles:
70% insects (crickets, mealworms, woodies)
30% vegetables and greens
Adults:
20% insects
80% vegetables and greens
Feeding tips:
Dust insects with calcium powder 4–5 times a week.
Offer fresh greens daily, such as collard greens, dandelion leaves, and squash.
Avoid avocado, rhubarb, and iceberg lettuce.
5. Handling & Bonding
Bearded dragons are known for their calm nature, which makes them great companions when handled properly. Regular, gentle handling helps your dragon become more comfortable with you, reduces stress, and encourages them to be more interactive. Start slowly by placing your hand in their enclosure so they can approach you at their own pace. Once they’re relaxed, you can lift them by supporting their body and legs, ensuring they feel secure.
Short, frequent handling sessions are better than long ones, especially for young dragons still adjusting to their environment. Always handle them in a safe space where they can’t fall or escape, and avoid handling immediately after feeding, as this can cause discomfort.
Bonding goes beyond physical interaction — spend time near their enclosure so they get used to your voice and movements. Offering food by hand can also build trust over time.
At Toni’s Pet Station in Ningi, we’re happy to share tips on safe handling techniques and how to read your bearded dragon’s body language. With patience and consistency, you’ll form a strong bond that makes caring for your reptile even more rewarding.
6. Reptile Licence Requirements in Queensland
In Queensland, you need a recreational wildlife licence to keep a bearded dragon. This helps ensure reptiles are kept legally and responsibly.
Toni’s Pet Station can guide you through the licensing process so you can bring your new dragon home without any hassle. Our team is experienced in reptile ownership requirements and can answer any questions about the application process.
7. Protecting the Local Environment
Responsible bearded dragon care isn’t just about keeping your pet healthy—it’s also about protecting the environment. Never release pet reptiles into the wild, as this can harm local ecosystems and spread diseases.
By purchasing from a reputable breeder or licensed store like Toni’s Pet Station, you’re helping prevent the illegal trade of wildlife and supporting ethical reptile keeping.
8. Why Buy Your Bearded Dragon from Toni’s Pet Station
When you buy a bearded dragon from Toni’s Pet Station in Ningi, you’re getting:
A healthy, well-cared-for reptile for $300.
Access to enclosures, heating, lighting, and reptile accessories.
Live insect food and supplements for optimal health.
Expert advice on bearded dragon care and reptile licensing.
We also have a reptile section stocked with everything you need, whether you’re a first-time reptile owner or looking to expand your collection.
9. Visit Toni’s Pet Station Today
If you’re ready to start your bearded dragon care journey, visit Toni’s Pet Station in Ningi. Our friendly team can help you choose the right pet, set up their home, and understand everything you need to know before bringing them home.
📍 Address:
Toni’s Pet Station, Ningi QLD
📞 Phone:
(07) 5429 5995
Frequently Asked Questions – Bearded Dragon Care
Q: Do you need a licence to own a bearded dragon in Queensland?
Yes. You must have a recreational wildlife licence, which Toni’s Pet Station can help you obtain.
Q: How much does a bearded dragon cost at Toni’s Pet Station?
Bearded dragons are available for $300, with all necessary supplies available in-store.
Q: What do bearded dragons eat?
As mentioned above in the full bearded dragon care guide, they eat a mix of live insects, vegetables, and occasional fruit, with the ratio changing as they grow.
Q: How long do bearded dragons live?
With proper care, they can live between 8–12 years.