Bearded dragons require an environment with just the right amount of humidity in order to live long and prosperous lives. But how do you get that balance just right? Don’t worry — we have all the answers here in this ultimate guide on humidity for your bearded dragon.

We’ll cover everything from what is ideal humidity levels are, to how to raise or lower them if necessary, as well as why getting it right is so important. So let’s start learning!

When it comes to keeping a bearded dragon as a pet, temperature is often the first thing that new owners think about. After all, everyone knows that reptiles need warmth in order to survive and thrive.

However, what many people fail to realize is that humidity levels are just as important for the health of their reptile friend!

Proper humidity levels can help keep your bearded dragon healthy and comfortable while providing them with an environment similar to their natural habitat in the Australian outback. Getting the right balance between temperature and humidity can be tricky, but with some knowledge and effort you can create a perfect home for your scaly companion.

In their natural habitat, bearded dragons typically have a relative humidity (RH) of 35-40%. This is the typical range for the arid to semi-arid regions of the Australian Outback to which bearded dragons are native.

They love a dry heat!

These native habitats in New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia and Victoria are very dry. There is not much rain or humidity in these regions. They usually have hot temperatures and little vegetation. As a result, bearded dragons are adapted for maximum comfort and optimal health in environments with these conditions.

In captivity, it is important to recreate the natural environment of a bearded dragon as closely as possible. This means providing an enclosure with humidity levels that are between 35-40%.

The relative humidity (RH) of your bearded dragon’s tank should be 35-40%. Relative humidity means the amount of moisture in the air relative to the maximum possible for that temperature. The best way to measure humidity levels is with a hygrometer. This should be calibrated to ensure accuracy, as this will help you maintain the correct levels of humidity in your pet’s enclosure.

You shouldn’t expect the humidity level of your bearded dragon’s tank to automatically register at the ideal 35-40%. You may need to make adjustments in order to achieve this.

Fortunately, there are a few easy methods for raising or lowering the humidity in your pet’s enclosure.

1. Make sure the water bowl is away from any heat sources in the tank, as this can lead to excessive evaporation of water.

2. Equip your tank with a mesh lid, or one that allows for ample ventilation. Solid enclosure tops restrict ventilation and prevent air exchange with the outside environment, resulting in higher humidity levels.

3. Place a dehumidifier in or near the tank, as this can help to absorb moisture from the air and lower the humidity levels.

4. Use a fan to help circulate the air in the room and lower the humidity in your tank.

5. Decrease the amount of natural plants in your beardie’s tank. These can often release moisture into the air, making it more humid.

Mesh tops allow for greater air circulation and help lower humidity

1. Place the water bowl closer to heat sources in the tank, as this will help to evaporate more moisture into the air.

2. Periodically spray the enclosure with a misting bottle. This will add moisture to the air and increase the humidity levels.

3. Increase the amount of natural plants in your pet’s tank, as this will help absorb water throughout the day and release it into the air.

4. Place a humidifier in or near to your tank, as this will help add moisture to the air and increase the humidity levels.

There’s no way to accurately measure the humidity levels in your bearded dragon’s enclosure without a hygrometer. It is important to calibrate the hygrometer before using it, as this will help ensure the accuracy of your readings.

A hygrometer is a digital or analog device that measures the relative humidity (RH) of the surrounding air. Most hygrometers are simple to use and come with instructions on how to calibrate. Once you have the device set up, you can easily monitor the levels of humidity in your pet’s enclosure and make the necessary adjustments to ensure it is always within the correct range.

These models are usually cheaper than digital ones and are easy to use. They also require no batteries, so they can last a very long time with proper maintenance. Mechanical hygrometers indicate the relative humidity of surrounding air with a moving needle.

However, mechanical hygrometers can be more difficult to calibrate and may not give you an accurate reading of the humidity levels in your bearded dragon’s tank.

Additionally, they must be kept inside the tank. Some owners grow frustrated with the bulky size of mechanical hygrometers, as they can take up valuable space in a reptile tank.

These devices, also called probe hygrometers, are more expensive than mechanical models, but they offer the most accurate readings and make it easier to monitor the humidity levels in your bearded dragon’s enclosure.

Digital hygrometers have a probe that can be placed inside the tank, which gives you more precise readings of the humidity levels. They are also easier to calibrate and require less maintenance than mechanical models.

Some owners like that they can simply position the probe in the tank and leave the bulky device outside. This allows them to conserve more space in the bearded dragon’s enclosure.

For the most accurate readings, you should place the hygrometer in the center of your bearded dragon’s tank. This will ensure that you get an accurate measure of the average humidity levels throughout the enclosure.

• Place the device away from direct heat sources, as these can give false readings
• Make sure that the probe of the hygrometer is not covered and can receive an accurate reading
• Position your hygrometer in an area that is not blocked by rocks, logs or other items in the enclosure. Avoid placing next to live plants, as these give off moisture that can throw off readings
• Do not place the hygrometer in a corner of the tank, as this can give false readings
• Clean the hygrometer regularly to ensure dust and particles are not interfering with the device

It is important to maintain the proper humidity levels in your bearded dragon’s tank for its overall health and wellbeing. Levels that are too low or too high can lead not only to stress and discomfort, but also to serious health issues that could be fatal.

If you suspect your pet is suffering from a humidity-related issue, it is important to seek out professional veterinary care as soon as possible and work to correct the humidity levels in its enclosure.

Excess humidity causes many health issues for bearded dragons, including:

• Respiratory infections
• Bacterial growth
• Fungal growth
• Ulcerative or necrotic dermatitis
• Mycotic disease

A lack of humidity can cause health problems also, including:

• Dehydration
• Avascular necrosis
• Renal disease
• Non-obstructive dystocia

All of the diseases listed above can be prevented with proper monitoring of the humidity levels in your bearded dragon’s tank. With the right hygrometer and some careful attention to detail, you can ensure your pet enjoys a healthy and happy life.

Maintaining the right humidity levels in your bearded dragon’s tank is essential for its health and happiness. By using a hygrometer, you can keep track of the humidity levels in your reptile’s enclosure and take steps to correct it when necessary.

Armed with the right tricks for lowering or raising humidity as needed and some tips on the best placement of your hygrometer, you can ensure that your pet enjoys a comfortable and healthy home.

The post Ultimate Guide To Bearded Dragon Humidity [Tips & Tricks] appeared first on beardie buddy .

We’ll cover topics such as:

• What UVB bulbs and which ones are best for bearded dragons
• How to position UVB bulbs correctly in your tank
• What’s the best setup for a basking lamp
• Creating a temperature gradient
• Plenty of other tips that will help you create an optimal environment for your bearded dragon!

With this guide, you’ll be able to set up a habitat that provides everything they need! So grab your sunglasses and et’s get started, shall we?

Existing beyond the spectrum of visible lights, UVB rays are undetectable to the human eye. Nevertheless, they are essential to the health of your bearded dragon.

Bearded dragons require UVB rays in order to produce Vitamin D3. Without it, they can’t absorb and use calcium, leading to the development of metabolic bone disease, a nasty affliction that can cause growth problems and disfiguration.

The first step in setting up your bearded dragon’s habitat is to choose the right fixtures for their UVB bulbs.

When it comes to UVB bulbs, you essentially have two options: T5 UVB bulbs and T8 UVB bulbs. The two models differ in diameter and output.

T5s output more UVB than T8s, so they can be placed further away from your bearded dragon and mounted outside the tank. A T5 can be positioned about the mesh top to your beardie’s enclosure

T8 bulbs on the other hand, output less UVB and must be placed inside the tank to guarantee they are supplying enough UVB for your beardie. You can usually mount them with a simple command strip on the top or side of the tank. 

It’s important to note that regardless of the type you choose, the bulb should cover between 2/3 and 3/4 of the tank. This guarantees plenty of rays for your beardie to soak up, while still allowing for a shady escape if needed.

The ideal distance between the UVB bulb and floor of the tank should be between 12-18 inches. This is because UVB rays have a limited range, and in order to reach the bearded dragon they should be placed at just the right height. If the UVB bulb is too high, the rays won’t penetrate down far enough and your beardie won’t get the required exposure.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to invest in fixtures with reflectors to ensure that your pet is getting the maximum amount of UVB possible! This is especially true if you have a T5 bulb is mounted outside the enclosure and is shining through a mesh top. The mesh stops some of the UVB rays from getting into the tank. A reflector will help to maximize the output.

The ideal bearded dragon lighting positions a basking lamp at one end of the tank, and a UVB light that reaches about two-thirds of the tank

In addition to the UVB bulb, your bearded dragon needs a basking lamp. This fixture provides warmth and will help regulate the temperature of their tank.

It’s vital that you position the basking lamp at one end of the tank, not in the middle. This will create a “hot side” and a “cool side”, allowing your bearded dragon to move between the two environments as needed. The resulting “temperature gradient” will allow your beardie to warm himself up or cool himself down to regulate his body temperature.

Temperature gradient = a habitat with a warm side (where the basking lamp is) and cool side (the opposite side of the tank from the basking lamp).

You should also have a basking spot set up directly underneath the basking lamp, raised off the floor and offering closer proximity to the lamp. A flat rock or a log make the ideal lounge chair for your lizard to soak up the heat of their beloved basking lamp.

It’s important to use a thermometer to monitor temperatures in the enclosure. You want to make sure that your bearded dragon is comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 95–105°F on the hot side and 80–90°F on the cool side.

Note: Baby and juvenile bearded dragons require a slightly warmer temperature of up to 115°F on the hot side and 95°F on the cool end. The temperature in the tank should be gradually decreased as your beardie approaches adulthood.

Setting up a basking lamp at one end of the tank creates a proper temperature gradient

When it comes to your basking lamp, you’ll want to invest in a mercury vapor bulb or an incandescent spotlight. Both of these fixtures can provide UVA and heat — the two things your bearded dragon needs to stay healthy and happy.

A halogen bulb or incandescent spotlight produce a decent amount of heat; a bulb of 90–100 watts will keep the tank plenty warm.

If you’re using a fluorescent bulb, you’ll need to up the wattage to somewhere around 120 or 150 watts. These bulbs don’t produce as much heat, so you’ll have to compensate with a more powerful bulb.

If you’re having trouble keeping the tank warm enough during cold winter months, you may want to invest in a ceramic heat emitter. This fixture is mounted up high above the tank and emits infrared heat.

The emitter should never be placed inside the enclosure, as it can easily become too hot for your bearded dragon to handle. Position it on the outside of the tank, directed downward towards the middle of the tank or basking area.

A ceramic heat emitter is only necessary if the room temperature drops below 70°F. Rooms this cold suck a lot of heat out of your beardie’s tank. Make sure you’re using a thermometer to monitor temperatures in the tank, and adjust your heat sources as needed.

Your bearded dragon should get 12–14 hours of intense light each day from the combination of both the UVB bulb and basking lamp. The best way to achieve this is by using a timer for your lights, setting it to turn on at least 12 hours per day.

Any more than the recommended 12–14 hours of light can put too much stress on your bearded dragon. Any less can result in a variety of health problems and an unhappy lizard.

And don’t forget that during the summer months, natural sunlight should be taken into account when setting up a lighting schedule for your beardie’s tank. If you have windows in the room where their tank is located, make sure to adjust the lighting schedule accordingly. It’s best to match your beardie’s lighting schedule with the sun’s natural cycle.

No, your bearded dragon should not have a light on at night. Like all reptiles, they need darkness to regulate their circadian rhythms (aka body clock) and get proper rest. A consistent dark period of 10–12 hours every night is the best way to ensure your beardie’s health and happiness.

You’ll see a variety of red and blue lights on the market. These lights emit a low level of light and are marketed as being safe for nighttime lighting. However, even those low lights can disrupt sleep and throw off a bearded dragon’s day/night cycle.

For the best results, keep your beardie’s tank dark for at least 10–12 hours each night. To make your lizard feel safe, you can provide some natural hiding spots in the tank or add a shallow cave to help them relax (they might even ask you for a sleep mask).

A: Bearded dragons need full-spectrum UVB and UVA lighting as well as a basking lamp to keep the tank warm.

A: Bearded dragons should have 12–14 hours of intense lighting each day — this can come from either natural or artificial sources. The best way to ensure consistent lighting is to use a timer for your fixtures and make sure you adjust it

A: No, your bearded dragon should have a dark period of 10–12 hours every night. Even very dim red and blue lights can disrupt their sleep and throw off their circadian rhythms. Keep the tank dark to give your beardie

A: If the room temperature drops below 70°F, you may want to invest in a ceramic heat emitter to keep your tank warm enough. Make sure it’s mounted up high above the tank and directed downward towards the middle of the tank or

A: UVA and UVB are simply two different wavelengths of light, both of which are invisible to humans. UVA lighting is essential for your bearded dragon’s overall health and wellbeing, as it helps them regulate their circadian rhythms, appetite, and mood. UVB lighting is necessary to help with calcium absorption in their body. Both types of light are important, so make sure you have both in your tank.

In review, here’s what we have learned about the best lighting for a bearded dragon tank:

• Bearded dragons need full-spectrum UVA and UVB lighting, as well as a basking lamp to keep their tank warm.
• To ensure consistent light exposure, use a timer to turn the lights on for 12–14 hours each day. During the summer months, account for natural sunlight when setting up the schedule.
• To give your beardie some peace and quiet, keep the tank dark for 10–12 hours at night.
• If the room temperature drops below 70°F, you may need a ceramic heat emitter to supplement their warmth needs.
• Positing your lights properly is critical. Stronger bulbs should be mounted above the tank, while weaker bulbs should be set up inside the tank closer to the bottom of the enclosure.

Once you know the essentials, setting up your bearded dragon’s tank with the right lighting doesn’t seem so scary. You’ll be able to provide your beardie with the right light and temperature levels it needs to stay happy and healthy.

Now, you can go ahead and enjoy watching your scaly little buddy as they bask in the comfort of their habitat (and work on that summer tan)!

The post The Ultimate Bearded Dragon Lighting Guide [Perfect Uvb Setup] appeared first on beardie buddy .