Bearded Dragon

Scientific Name: Pogona vitticeps

Order: Squamata (amphisbaenians, lizards and snakes)

Family: Agamidae (agamas)

Conservation Status

About

The bearded dragon is thorny and scaly in appearance. It gets its name “bearded” dragon from the spikes around its head that are similar to a beard. When frightened or displaying, they will gape and expand the scales on the throat pouch to show off a dark beard. To communicate they will bob their heads, bow, and even wave their hands. Unlike most lizards, bearded dragons cannot regrow body parts such as their tail or legs.

Find me at EPZ

Location: This animal is not on exhibit. It is part of our educational collection and may only be seen in programs inside or outside of the zoo.

Arrived at EPZ: Smalls - 9/25/2019

Habitat & Range
Bearded dragons are native to southeast Australia. Their preferred environment is an arid, rocky, or semi-desert region. They typically inhabit desert scrublands, grasslands and dry woodlands.
Identification
Bearded dragons are squat-bodied lizards with moderately long tails and a distinct series of enlarged scales across their throats. They have spiny scales around the throat and head that are arranged in cluster. Adults measure up to 24 inches long including the tail.
Diet
Bearded dragons are omnivorous and generalists. Plant matter makes up about 20% of their diet, while the rest is made up of insects, spiders, other small invertebrates and the occasional small vertebrate.
Reproduction & Lifespan
Mating occurs during the Australian summer, which is September through March. Females dig a burrow and lay up to 24 eggs per clutch and up to 9 clutches per year. Eggs generally hatch after 55 to 75 days of incubation. Life expectancy is 10 years.
Fantastic Fact
The bearded dragon will greet others or show dominance by standing on its three legs, while rotating its fourth leg in the air.

Bearded Dragon

Conservation Status

About

Find me at EPZ

Habitat & Range

Identification

Diet

Reproduction & Lifespan

Fantastic Fact