Sample of a proper enclosure or habitat
This photo shows an example of a proper caging set-up. This is how we keep our bearded dragons. We do not house our dragons in racking systems or stacked in tubs on shelves. Although many other breeders house their dragons in these previously mentioned manners we prefer to house our dragons in a manner that promotes optimum socialization. We also prefer to house them in a manner in which we can continue to get personal enjoyment from our dragons as they are our pets as well as breeders. We house our dragons in 40 and 50 gallon reptile tanks. This particular enclosure shows a large wide flat piece of cork bark approximately 18" in length and 9" in width. Flat pieces are the best as opposed to round hollow pieces where feeder crickets can hide inside. This picture shows several young sub-adult dragons. You will also see a "half-round hide" log sitting at the base of the cork bark "ramp". The half-round log can help to stabilize your basking site piece as well as providing your dragon with an alternative place to "hang out" (as the dragon in the photo is doing). They love to prop-up on these half-round hides throughout the day. Be sure your dragon can climb up to the top of the basking site and be within 4-5 inches of the UVA/UVB basking heat/light. Place the food plate or bowl at the opposite end of the tank in the "cool zone". In this cage we are using "print-free" newspaper in place of sand substrate.