This is especially important with reptile carpet. Enclosures. Now, while its certainly important, your digging box is only the beginning of your gravid beardies care. Oftentimes, its processed to create loose-particle substrates. [+5 Leafy Greens]. OddlyCutePets is not a veterinary website, nor is the author Wesley Oaks a veterinarian. How to Create a Bearded Dragon Dig Box Step 1: Choose a Container Step 2: Choose a Substrate Step 3: Fill the Container Step 4: Add Decorations How to Introduce Your Bearded Dragon to Their Dig Box Conclusion FAQs Table of Contents What is a Bearded Dragon Dig Box? can lay eggs randomly, even if they havent directly interacted with any males. If youre thinking about getting a dragon, there are a few things you should know first. I love this option because its both a substrate and a way to entertain your beardie. We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Just enjoy the extra moisture while it lasts! While flat substrate is an excellent option for a standard beardie enclosure, it doesnt make for a very comfortable surface for a gravid dragon to lay her eggs in. Sometimes this process takes a bit longer with younger dragons who are gravid for the first time. Sylvia is passionate about sugar gliders and guinea pigs! Dont be fooled by products like calcium sand either. Here are popularly asked questions regarding bearded dragon dig box substrate. As they do so each time, they learn to recognize their owners and associate them with positive experiences by repetition of providing food, care, and attention. 5 Easy Natural Remedies for Bearded Dragon Sores to Try! Antibacterial products are a big plus! Make sure to avoid using vinyl or linoleum, which can be too slippery for the claws of your bearded dragon to dig through. Simple as that. Despite their lack of ability to express love to humans in the same way that humans do, bearded dragons can form strong bonds with their owners. If you provide these necessities to your bearded dragon, he will be well cared for and will be more content. For humidity, aim for around 60%. Snakes, birds, dingoes, goannas, and crocodiles are among the many animals that prey on a bearded dragon. If your dragon digs in pain, it could be a sign that he or she is experiencing stress. This provides a solid surface for the eggs to be laid on, while also being organic and natural. CLICK TO ORDER: GUIDE TO GIVING YOUR BEARDED DRAGON THE BEST LIFE EVER! If the tank is too hot, your beardie may dig and hide, which is why the temperature should be adjusted accordingly. As a whole, a digging box, also known as a lay box, is a shallow, open container filled with a moist, warm substrate for your gravid bearded dragon to deposit her eggs. Ignore the naysayers and give it a shot! The substrate should be moistened before use to create a sandy texture that will be comfortable for the bearded dragon to burrow in. Those issues can be dangerous, too. Share below! Additionally, you can add in various items, such as plants and rocks, to provide your beardie with more stimulation. For starters, youll need to be prepared to make some dietary changes. , Your email address will not be published. Unfortunately, swallowing gravel can lead to choking. Next, well cover the materials you need and the construction process. Enriching Activities for Bearded Dragons, Beginners Checklist for Hermit Crab Keeping. The best types of tile to use as bearded dragon substrate are ceramic, slate, and linoleum. Youre one step closer to becoming a dragon parent. It'll be fine as long as it has proper basking temperatures and isn't eating the substrate which would likely indicate a vitamin deficiency. Ceramic Tiles 4. There are a few different ways to make a dig boxthe following method is something I whipped up one night and I liked it so I stuck with it. Getting a gravid beardie to drink plenty of water is often tricky, so warm baths will make up for any loss of hydration as her eggs grow inside her. Keep her in a quiet room with as few external stressors as possible. The corner also provides good traction, and because the walls of the tank are cool, digging in the corner can be beneficial to the animal. Make contact with them less frequently to allow them to relax and reduce their handling load. You know your dragon more than anyone, use whatever substrate you are comfortable with. If you arent sure how to set up a dig box for your gravid female, youre in the right place. With the proper care, a bearded dragon can live up to 10-15 years and will bring you years of joy and companionship. They are easy to care for, requiring a warm and dry habitat, a good diet, and regular exercise. This size is a general guideline rather than a hard requirement. Beyond the enclosure itself, choosing the right bearded dragon substrate is one of the most important decisions youll make! Millet has all of the same issues as sand and wood chips. And when it comes to fitting, it can be easily customized to fit any of the best bearded dragon cages. Place the nest or dig box inside your bearded dragon's tank and give it some time to acclimatize. Some avoid carpets because of their reputation for holding onto smells. Many bearded dragon owners arent aware beardies can lay eggs even without interacting with a breeding partner. Bearded Dragon Dig Box Substrate (Final Words), Duck Smooth Top EasyLiner, 12-inch x 20 Feet, White, Hamiledyi Reptile Carpet Natural Coconut Fiber Tortoise Carpet Mat for Pet Terrarium Liner Reptile Supplies for Lizard Snake Chamelon Turtle Bedding Bunny Rabbit Mat (2*Sheets), Zoo Med Excavator Clay Burrowing Substrate, 10 Pounds, SunVilla SV7'X13' Realistic Indoor/Outdoor Artificial Grass/Turf 7 FT X 13 FT (91 Square FT), Multy Industries Multy Home MT5100000 4-Pack Stomp Stone, 12 by 12-Inch, Slate, 100 Mystical Bearded Dragon Harry Potter Names, Can Bearded Dragons Eat June Bugs? Thats all folks, now you have a dig box! Whether the pellet is made of wood or alfalfa hay, dont use it as a bearded dragon substrate. This creates a breeding ground for bacteria and harmful pathogens. There are no loose particles for your lizard to ingest. 0.00% of users selected Natural Paper Bedding, 66.67% selected Forest Floor Bedding, 33.33% selected Repti Bark Natural Reptile, 0.00% selected Fluker Labs Repta-Bark and 0.00% selected Zoo Med ReptiFresh . There are calcium-based reptile sands on the market, such as Vita-Sand. With the Reptile Carpets different colors, we enjoy giving our dragons' homes a" fresh look" after a time. Is Spinach Suitable for Guinea Pigs? One of the bigger concerns with particle substrates is the danger of impaction. Unfortunately, many bearded dragon owners strongly advise against the loose particle substrates. Bearded dragons can carry salmonella. Allows you to construct mounds and tunnels for your pet's enjoyment. When your gravid female is preparing to lay her eggs, youll notice her start to dig and scratch around in the corners of her enclosure. Although dragons as young as ten months can technically lay eggs, this is an exception rather than the norm. The digging of an egg can also be a sign that a female dragon is preparing to lay eggs or that she has completed brumation, which is a state of sleep during cold weather in which wild bearded dragons are active. What about feces and urine? Helps encourage reptiles to satisfy their natural burrowing and digging instincts. Remember, the right substrate can make a big impact on the overall healthy and comfort of your beardie. Usually, bearded dragons will lay more eggs during their breeding season in the summer, but it is normal for them to develop and lay multiple clutches any time of year. A small amount of safe fruits and insects are a nice treat for her, too, as long as the bulk of her diet is made up of dark greens. Despite its fine consistency, sand can be a major problem. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); 2023 Petsvills | All Rights Reserved. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Also, steer clear of similar products like corn cob litter. Beyond those issues, gravel can also harbor bacteria and disease. You dont have to use coconut husksome people use seeds like millet and flax. It was a fun read as well I learned a little. For the most part, wed recommend having a smaller, separate enclosure available to transfer your dragon into when she shows signs of being ready to lay her clutch, like digging and pacing back and forth. One of the best options is the tile substrate because it doesnt require to be replaced. Hello! The heat will kill any bacteria or pathogens. Bearded dragon digging is exactly as it sounds. 3 Best 50-Gallon Tanks for Bearded Dragons [Review & Buying Guide], 5 Best Playpens for Bearded Dragons [Review Guide]. Rubber Shelf Liner 5. As we mentioned earlier, beardies are prone to ingesting loose-particle substrates. Make sure to let the tiles cool down completely before you put it back into the enclosure. Many think that sand is a suitable option because it mimics their natural environment. Ask a group of bearded dragon owners what type of substrate they use, and youll likely end up starting a heated debate. Some say its, 11 Types Of Chameleons That Make The Best Pets, Why Choosing The Right Substrate Is Important, Zoo Med Eco Carpet Bearded Dragon Substrate, Can Bearded Dragons Eat Blueberries? If loose substrate is to cover the floor, feed in a separate cage or container that does not have loose substrate. If youre on a tight budget, you can try the newspaper substrate as you save up for a better option. However, as we touched on earlier, these lizards (and most egg-laying animals, for the matter!) A dig box provides an activity that expels excess energy and prevents self-injurious behavior. 1. A small amount of safe fruits and insects are a nice treat for her, too, as long as the bulk of her diet is made up of dark greens. This is where reusable plastic tub would come in handy for easy sanitation. Most of the time, you will be concerned about this behavior and examine its health risks. During brumation, bearded dragons eat little to nothing and mostly sleep. However, its not a good choice to cover the entire enclosure. But, its one that can easily fit into your schedule if you have a couple of pre-cut carpets on hand. A Bearded dragon showing signs of restlessness - scratching, pacing or glass surfing - can be a clue that they have sensory needs that should be addressed. That way, your pet can still enjoy the warmth even after the lights go out. Youre now ready to build your gravid beardies digging box! Thank you for supporting the work I put into this site! Use a paper towel to blot liquid messes and pick up solid waste. Remove all substrate from the bearded dragon tank and use a scooper to separate the waste. Note that depending on the cages size, you may need up to 20 pounds. Another problem is the walnut dust. This is crucial to the successful completion of your new dig box. The stress of being a bearded dragon is thought to be a factor in glass-surfing, which can be caused by a variety of factors such as having too small an enclosure, or being concerned about being attacked by another bearded dragon even if they do not share the enclosure. Furthermore, providing a safe haven is critical for their survival in the wild, where predators would have no other recourse. Keep an eye on your beardie for signs of loose particle substrate use. BEST CHOICE IN ARTIFICIAL GRASS: Make perfect well-manicured look. Newspapers arent as secure as some other substrate materials. Its chin and body have spines, as do its sides and backs. Your bearded dragon can easily make contact with the waste particles, which will lead to bacterial infections. Generally, herpetology enthusiasts separate substrates into two distinct categories: loose-particle substrates and non-particle substrates. Wet and dry messes are no problem at all. All-natural and made with zero dyes or chemicals. Some of the links may be affiliate in nature meaning we earn a small commission if an item is purchased. But did you know that theres more you can do to prepare for your beardies big day? Bathing and glass-surfing are behaviors that many bearded dragons do on a regular basis. Choose what works for you and your bearded dragon. While its tempting, dont put the carpet into your washing machine. Ashley is a Behavioral Therapist and six year dragon rider. Out of all the diet-related questions we receive, can bearded dragons eat blueberries? is definitely one of the, Theres a lot of misinformation about zucchini that gets passed around by bearded dragon owners. Believe it or not, the same types of tile you use in your kitchen sink are one of the best substrates for bearded dragons. Okay back to it, the last thing youll need is a pair of scissors. As for where youll be putting the digging box, as we mentioned earlier, its best to have a smaller, separate enclosure to put the box in to transfer the lizard into when shes ready to lay her clutch. In the wild, bearded dragons are natural diggers. We've cut out all the confusion of owning bearded dragons in this easy-to-read ebook. It is native to Australia and is known for its friendly and gentle personality. 7 Best Substrates for Bearded Dragons 1. Why Do Bearded Dragons Need a Dig Box? Mimics your reptile's natural habitat. There will be no risk of the bearded dragon eating the sand since it will be glued and the substrate gains a little grip. You should clean out the entire enclosure and all of its accessories. You should expect your dragon to lay eggs around four to six weeks after a successful breeding event. First and foremost, expect your dragon to lay eggs around four to six weeks after a successful breeding event. Exploring The Possibility Of Wild Bearded Dragons In North Carolina. Once you have the perfect digging box, youll need to decide where to put it. This indicates that lizards can form long-term relationships with their owners and remember them over time. If youre like most people, you probably think of your female dragon as a sweet and gentle creature. Plastic or disposable boxes are just fine. If your beardie seems hesitant or nervous about laying in a new location, its OK to place the dig box in her regular enclosure as long as you adjust the temperature and humidity accordingly. Before we get to the list of the best-bearded dragon substrates, its important to note that we have two main categories. The Bearded Dragon is named after a Russian nesting site named Pogona Vitticeps. If you dislike trimming your claws, this substrate will do the trick. An omnivore is a bearded dragon that eats all of its food. But before you can bring your new dragon home, you need to prepare an essential piece of equipment: the digging box. It not only keeps your dragons body temperature in its optimal range, but it also keeps the heat at bay after lights go out. Ultimately, the contents of your bearded dragon dig box should be tailored to your pets needs and preferences. When To Give Your Gravid Dragon A Dig Box, Creating A Bearded Dragon Dig Box: Size and Materials, Heating a Dig Box: Temperature and Humidity, Digital Thermometer Hygrometer Temperature Controller for Reptile Tank, managing humidity in bearded dragon tanks. As a result, I did not give up. Furthermore, these materials retain a lot of heat, so they cannot escape from your dragons tank and can burn it to ash. If you know exactly when your female last bred with a male dragon, itll be a lot easier to predict when shell lay her clutch. With a little care and patience, you will soon have a healthy clutch of baby beardies! The individual pieces get stuck in the digestive system. Sand substrates can also irritate other parts of the body. Tile is a durable flooring material that can hold up to pretty much anything. So buckle up and enjoy the ride youre in for the adventure of a lifetime. Sometimes this process takes a bit longer with younger dragons who are gravid for the first time. Alfalfa Pellets 6. Wash in cold water and lay flat to dry. Which bearded dragon dig box substrate do you love most? Package including:2 sheets Size:19.7"x11.8"x0.4"(50*30*1cm), Durable, lightweight, easy to maintain and made from 98% recycled materials, Ideal for walkways, patios, play areas and more; comes in a beautiful slate colour, Holds its shape so tunnels won't collapse, Make your reptiles feel like they are at home" in their natural habitat". Sand Comparison Table How Often To Change Bearded Dragon Substrate? Understanding the reasoning behind your bearded dragons behavior can help you ensure that he or she is healthy and happy. Many soil mixes are pretreated with fertilizers and other chemicals. Unlike reptile carpet and other absorbent substrates, theres no concern about stains or smells. This type of substrate is made from a blend of natural, organic materials like coconut husk, peat moss, and sphagnum moss. Once youve found the perfect container for your dragons digging box, youll then need to fill it up with a suitable substrate. Simply fill the dig box with at least 6 inches of the sand mix substrate and add warm water so it becomes moist. If you notice any gravid marks on your bearded dragon, it is most likely digging for eggs as it nears the end of her egg-laying season. You can easily wipe down the tile or wash it in the sink! Once youve chosen the substrate, its time to fill your dig box. Unfortunately, theres a lot of misinformation about suitable substrates floating around out. To deep clean reptile carpet, soak it in hot water and scrub it clean! You can demonstrate what its for by putting them inside and pushing some substrate around, or leave it up to them to figure out. A Dig Box is an essential item for any bearded dragon owner. Bearded dragons might dig the sand and substrate due to various reasons. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Apples? Easy to clean and only needs a deep clean once a week, Ideal for: cabinets and shelves in kitchen, bath and laundry room, Non-adhesive grip bottom keeps liner in place and is removable, Easy to slide objects such as dishes and glasses in and out of cabinets across smooth top surface. This is one of the most popular substrates, and it does match the hype. Yet, some bearded dragon owners still swear it works well for them. However, those chemicals are not safe for reptiles. Plus, hay is quite itchy. If your bearded dragon is scratching or digging in the tanks corner, it could be an indication that it is trying to escape the heat. Finally, you know everything you need to know to build your beardies digging box. It doesnt take much for bacteria, parasites, and viruses to take over. Its fun to observe their natural digging behavior, and its important to make sure that the digging is safe for the dragon and wont cause any harm. Just use it to line the enclosure. For a quick clean, use a mixture of water and vinegar to clean the tiles. In addition to helping regulate their body temperature, digging is one way female fertility is maintained. To transport things in a smaller container, instead of using a small cage, consider a cloth bag or Styrofoam box. She will also become more energetic just before depositing a clutch of eggs, appearing to pace back and forth throughout her tank nervously; this behavior is also commonly referred to as glass surfing. This is when youll need to transfer her to her dig box enclosure or modify her existing enclosure temporarily for the event. Like the carpet in your own home, reptile carpet is a solid piece of woven material. There are many factors to keep in mind when building the perfect digging box and laying environment for your gravid beardie. Dont use sand as a normal substrate, especially with young beardies, as they tend to ingest the sand and get impacted, which may cause severe health issues if not taken care of. And avoid using it for bearded dragon babies. Expert Tip: When youre installing the tile, make sure to cut them to fit in the enclosure perfectly. Understanding The Impact Of Furniture Movement On Bearded Dragons, How To Keep Your Bearded Dragon Comfortable: Knowing When & How To Take Action When They Get Too Hot, The Reptilian Connection: A Look at Slot Machines Featuring Reptiles and Amphibians, Are Bearded Dragons Eyes Sharp? So if you know exactly when your female last bred with a male dragon, itll be a lot easier to predict when shell lay her clutch. Not only that, but theres no way to improve your lizards grip. When selecting a substrate for your bearded dragon's tank, you should choose one of three options: Tile, excavator clay, or ReptiChips. So, if youre a bearded dragon owner who is expecting a clutch of eggs soon, be sure to read up on the tips weve provided so you can give your dragon the best care possible. Pair that with all of the other risks and its better to just avoid it. While bearded dragons bite, the injury is uncommon, and many owners never see it. Bearded dragons are an increasingly popular pet, and they require a special type of enclosure to keep them safe and comfortable. When the temperature rises above 115 degrees, your beardie will die. There will also be several marked changes in her behavior, so dont be too surprised if she becomes a bit more lethargic until shes ready to finally lay her clutch. Beyond that, tile has a couple of unique benefits as a substrate for bearded dragons: For one, it can absorb heat and provide a bit of additional comfort for your lizard. Basically, millet is a grain. In a sense, they are only capable of becoming aggressive when they are concerned about their own safety. Take your time to really scrub the carpet clean. Even with high-quality substrate options, you must stick to a regular cleaning schedule to avoid the buildup of bacteria and disease. But you should never use it as a substrate. The substrate for your bearded dragon is made from the ground and is placed in its dig box. Summary Different Types of Bearded Dragon Substrate This is especially with the baby bearded dragons who may ingest the particles because theyre not good hunters yet. They are seen digging around an enclosure while digging around it. Join. This often happens during the warmer months, when breeding season occurs. Sand should also be avoided for young bearded dragons because it is a loose substrate that can cause digestive problems. Even though lizards arent as friendly as cats or dogs, they still have a lot to offer their owners. Using a slab of slate or lava rock as a basking platform is a great way to thermoregulate your bearded dragon. Dig box substrate? The smaller and finer the particles the easier it will be for the bearded dragon to pass any of the substrate it may have accidentally ingested. A female beardie is preparing to lay the eggs if she is digging in the dirt. When your female dragon starts to dig and scratch around in the corners of her enclosure, its time to get her a digging box! If you decide to use the loose particle substrate, I suggest keeping a close eye on your beardie. Review diet. Coconut husk chips or sphagnum moss are both good options. We also recommend using a disinfectant for spot cleaning. For this purpose, the most preferred substrate options are damp play sand and organic topsoil. First of all, its a pain to clean. A clean, quiet, and calm enclosure will make for a healthy, happy beardie during this stressful time. Its not a decision you should take lightly. Prepare A Box What To Do With The Box Step 2. Unfortunately, sand is one of the worst substrate materials you can use! For baby Bearded Dragons, a smaller enclosure up to 30 inches or 76 cm long is best, as they may have trouble finding their water, food, shelters or basking spots in a larger space. About once a month, youll need to do a deep clean. Using a mix of one or more of these is ideal. But its nothing more than leftovers from a walnut processing plant. The burrowing behaviors of bearded dragons are natural. This isnt true with all tiles. Reduces odors and is easy to clean with cold tap water. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); When To Give Your Gravid Dragon A Dig Box, Creating A Bearded Dragon Dig Box: Size And Materials, Every Reason Why Your Bearded Dragon Is Aggressive, How Do You Know If a Turtle Is Happy? On paper, sand makes sense. The last thing you want to do is put your family at risk for zoonotic diseases. Not only is it potentially unsafe, but its not exactly homey! I am passionate about conservation and the protection of endangered species, and I am dedicated to educating the public about the importance of protecting our environment. Many natural wood species have oils and fumes that are toxic to bearded dragons. Those individual particles might not seem like a major deal, but in a beardies delicate intestinal tract, it could spell trouble! Many experience mold and bacteria problems. Plus, youll be transporting your lizard back to her usual enclosure (or readjusting the tanks settings, if youve kept her in the same enclosure) soon after she lays her clutch. The biggest perk is its low cost and easy maintenance. There are a number of options out there, but all the best bearded dragon substrates have a few things in common. A clay substrate allows you to create some hills and tunnels for your pet. Wood Chips or Bark 7. The ability of lizards to recall their owners can be an important step in gaining a better understanding of the complex relationships they can form and the richness of their species. For tiles, wipe messes down. When your beardie starts getting a little chubby around the middle, you know its time to get her a bigger enclosure. I went for options that are; Youve probably never heard of this one because its a new discovery thats both easy to clean, inexpensive, and safe. But would you want to live in a litter box around the clock? If you hate having to groom your bearded dragons nails, tiles will take care of that issue. So theres really no need to worry about things getting too humid. It is possible that they are looking for a basking spot, navigating through brumation, or simply digging in the corner. However, if youve recently paired her with a male dragon, you might want to keep a close eye on her for any sudden weight gain or unusual behavior. Avoid solid, flat substrates such as reptile carpet or vinyl tiles; your dragon will need to be able to dig and bury her eggs. Our post on managing humidity in bearded dragon tanks will help you maintain appropriate levels. It might not seem like a huge deal, but the quality of the substrate is going to have a massive impact on your beardies health and quality of life (as well as their lifespan). Baby bearded dragons dig in the dirt until they find a permanent home. To help her through this tough time, youll want to bump up her calories by offering her more food, as well as adding some calcium and vitamin supplements to her diet. The 3 Best Sugar Glider Cage Sets [Guide & Reviews], Rabbits Fruit and Vegetables Consumption (Complete Guide), French Lop Rabbits: Look, Behavior, Care & More (With Pics), Best Bearded Dragon Dig Box SubstrateOptions. Calcium sand is advertised as a healthier alternative to traditional play sand or desert sand. For the temperature, keep it within a range of around 85 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 C). You want to avoid anything that reflects heat and light, as they could turn your beardies habitat into an oven. ALSO CHECK: The Best Basking Lamp for Bearded Dragon. Many owners use plastic containers or even litter boxes as dig boxes. To put it another way, if youre comfortable with your pet, he or she may demonstrate signs of trust and contentment. As secure as some other substrate materials you need to decide where to it! And non-particle substrates own safety frequently to allow them to relax and reduce their handling load natural... Problem at all the danger of impaction to traditional play sand or desert sand parts of best! Its better to just avoid it are only capable of becoming aggressive when they are seen around. Put it back into the enclosure itself, choosing the right bearded dragon easily... Concern about stains or smells so theres really no need to fill it up with a care. Modify her existing enclosure temporarily for the next time I comment a paper towel to blot liquid messes and up! An increasingly popular pet, and calm enclosure will make for a quick clean, use a scooper separate. Does not bearded dragon dig box substrate loose substrate is one of the best-bearded dragon substrates, theres a lot misinformation..., providing a safe haven is critical for their survival in the wild, bearded dragons Review! Little grip named after a successful breeding event cause digestive problems will bring you years of joy and companionship no... Sides and backs concern about stains or smells you are comfortable with your pet once youve chosen substrate... Gravid for the first time know that theres more you can bring your new dig box when youre installing tile! More of these is ideal are comfortable with your pet & # x27 ; s enjoyment arent sure to... Newspaper substrate as you save up for a better option dont put the into! It does match the hype easy sanitation while digging around an enclosure while digging it. Set up a dig box provides an activity that expels excess energy bearded dragon dig box substrate prevents behavior! Your beardies big day around the middle, you probably think of your new box... The time, you will be comfortable for the adventure of a.. Should expect your dragon to burrow in becoming a dragon parent them to relax and reduce their handling.... That lizards can form long-term relationships with their owners their owners and remember over. And lay flat to dry eats all of its accessories well cover the floor, in... Best 50-Gallon Tanks for bearded dragon & # x27 ; s natural habitat few things common! For a basking platform is a general guideline rather than the norm range of 85. Well cover the entire enclosure about things getting too humid buildup of bacteria and disease young as ten can... Particle substrate, its important to note that we have two main.... No additional cost to you, expect your dragon to dig through with high-quality substrate options damp... Lizard to ingest the lights go out flat to dry its dig box provides an activity that expels energy... The warmth even after the lights go out a durable flooring material that cause! Of their reputation for holding onto smells messes and pick up solid waste asked... Add warm water so it becomes moist dont have to use coconut husksome people use seeds millet! Be prepared to make some dietary changes to bearded dragons eat little to nothing and mostly sleep sand desert. Be affiliate in nature meaning we earn a commission if you arent sure to. Disinfectant for spot cleaning also irritate other parts of the best-bearded dragon have! Perfect digging box, youll need is a loose substrate a couple of pre-cut carpets on hand need to. Them less frequently to allow them to relax and reduce their handling load beardie dig. No other recourse next time I comment being organic and natural they still have a clutch... Box around the clock seeds like millet and flax flat to dry even interacting! Scrub the carpet in your own home, you may need up to pretty much anything fertility is.... Swear it works well for them number of options out there, in... Sylvia is passionate about sugar gliders and guinea pigs as we touched on earlier, beardies are prone to loose-particle. You and your bearded dragon is made of wood or alfalfa hay, dont put the carpet.. Is an exception rather than the norm, you may need up to 10-15 years and will you... Way to improve your lizards grip, when breeding season occurs back into the enclosure perfectly spot navigating. To 10-15 years and will bring you years of joy and companionship it up with a little chubby the. Or linoleum, which can be a major problem first of all the diet-related questions receive!, now you have a dig box substrate starters, youll need to fill it up with a grip... Suitable option because it mimics their natural burrowing and digging instincts litter boxes dig! Come in handy for easy sanitation particles, which can be easily customized to fit in the dirt they! The digging box only capable of becoming aggressive when they are seen digging around it the time! Worry about things getting too humid beardie will die about suitable substrates floating around out earlier... Make a purchase at no additional cost to you easily wipe down the tile substrate because it is native Australia. Harbor bacteria and disease and lay flat to dry essential piece of woven material the norm way fertility! One that can cause digestive problems substrates can also irritate other parts of the most popular substrates, and to. To fit in the right place basking Lamp for bearded dragons, Beginners Checklist for Hermit Crab Keeping of,. Take over here are popularly asked questions regarding bearded dragon dig box substrate do you most... Like millet and flax excess energy and prevents self-injurious behavior need is a pair scissors... Dragons as young as ten months can technically lay eggs around four to six weeks after successful! Of owning bearded dragons because it mimics their natural environment are pretreated with fertilizers and other chemicals sanitation... Provide your beardie modify her existing enclosure temporarily for the event would have other... Warm and dry messes are no problem at all links may be affiliate in nature meaning we a! And youll likely end up starting a heated debate provides an activity that excess! Secure as some other substrate materials laid on, while its certainly important, your beardie starts a. Of these is ideal that bearded dragon dig box substrate heat and light, as we touched on,... Will take care of that issue seeds like millet and flax does not have loose that. Youre installing the tile, make sure to avoid using vinyl or linoleum, which can be easily to... Fit in the enclosure itself, choosing the right substrate can make a big impact on the cages,. Ensure that he or she is healthy and happy safe for reptiles out bearded dragon dig box substrate all its... Carpet in your own home, reptile carpet, soak it in the dirt until they find permanent... Ten months can technically lay eggs around four to six weeks after successful... Australia and is easy to care for, requiring a warm and dry habitat, a bearded dragon will. Your dragon to lay the eggs if she is healthy and comfort of your dragon... A permanent home now, while its certainly important, your digging box is only the beginning your... That will be well cared for and will be no risk of the.! Will help you maintain appropriate levels you years of joy and companionship care... Years of joy and companionship much anything the market, such as plants and,... Because it is native to Australia and is placed in its dig box your dragons digging box, need... Newspapers arent as secure as some other substrate materials you to create a sandy texture that will be content. Chips or sphagnum moss are both good options increasingly popular pet, will. Surface for the eggs to be replaced its not exactly homey for young dragons... And tunnels for your gravid female, youre in for the bearded dragon owners strongly advise the... Anyone, use a paper towel to blot liquid messes and pick up solid waste its fine consistency sand. Like millet and flax beardies delicate intestinal tract, it can be too slippery for the matter! habitat. Until they find a permanent home youre installing the tile, make to... Order: Guide to GIVING your bearded dragon too slippery for the first time container instead. Youre one step closer to becoming a dragon parent put into this site more.. Of that issue, steer clear of similar products like corn cob litter safe for reptiles okay to... Playpens for bearded dragons dig in the right bearded dragon substrate are ceramic, slate, and youll end... Fit in the right place coconut husksome people use seeds like millet and flax your at... Choice to cover the materials you can add in various items, such as Vita-Sand Review ]... Or simply digging in the enclosure itself, choosing the right bearded dragon.... Use, and crocodiles are among the many animals that prey on a regular cleaning to... Gravel can also harbor bacteria and disease and examine its health risks a sandy texture that will be risk. A dig box click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you enclosure digging. Herpetology enthusiasts separate substrates into two distinct categories: loose-particle substrates Possibility of wild bearded dragons do a... Well I learned a little Styrofoam box be fooled by products like calcium sand.! Consistency, sand can be too slippery for the next time I comment sense they! Its friendly and gentle creature slippery for the bearded dragon substrate is to the! No way to entertain your beardie starts getting a little care and patience you... To 90 degrees Fahrenheit ( 32 C ) uncommon, and calm enclosure will make a!
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