Scientific name:
Pogona vitticeps
Other names:
Beardie, Bearded Dragon
Diet:
Omnivore (Insects, leaves, flowers)
Max Length:
~60 cm
Habitat:
Semi-arid woodlands, rocky deserts
Status:
Least Concern
The Central Bearded Dragon is arguably Australia’s most charismatic lizard. Known for their expressive faces and docile nature, they are perfect ambassadors for connecting children with the natural world. Our founder, Josh Cox, believes that meeting reptiles “in the flesh” is the best way to spark a passion for wildlife.
Bearded Dragons are agamid lizards, belonging to the same family as the Frilled Neck Lizard. They are characterized by a broad, triangular head and flattened body. Their distinct “beard”—a pouch of skin under the throat covered in spiny scales—can puff out and turn jet black when the lizard feels threatened or wants to display dominance. Their base color ranges from sandy grey to orange and red, providing camouflage against the “red center” soil.
These lizards are experts at temperature control. In the morning, a Bearded Dragon will flatten its body to absorb maximum heat. If they get too hot, they will open their mouths (gape) to release heat, similar to a dog panting.
Bearded Dragons are omnivores. Juveniles are mostly carnivorous, feasting on crickets, cockroaches, and spiders for protein. As they mature, their diet shifts to include more native flowers and soft leaves. At a kids reptile party, watching a Beardie crunch a bug is always a highlight!
Beardies use a complex language of gestures:
- Arm-Waving: Lifting a front leg and waving it slowly in a circular motion. This is a sign of submission (“I come in peace”).
- Head-Bobbing: A jerky nodding of the head, usually a sign of dominance by males.
During the cooler months, wild Bearded Dragons undergo brumation (reptilian hibernation), where they slow their metabolism and sleep. Females lay clutches of 10–30 eggs in warm sand, which hatch after 55–75 days.
Is a Bearded Dragon venomous?
Technically, scientists have discovered they possess primitive venom glands. However, this venom is harmless to humans and has no medical significance. They are considered safe and non-venomous pets.
Do they bite?
They generally have a very docile temperament. However, like any animal with teeth, they can bite if they feel terrified.
Meet a Dragon!
Our programs have been running for over 18 years with these friendly lizards as the stars. As Melbourne’s Mobile Zoo, we bring the zoo to you. Book a reptile party to meet them!
Reptile Encounters would like to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land, the people of the Kulin Nation, who have never ceded sovereignty. This always was and always will be Aboriginal land.