EASTERN BEARDED DRAGON

The Eastern Bearded Dragon is a sight to behold. It can grow up to 60 centimetres in length, with a robust body covered in rough, spiky scales. Its most striking feature is the ‘beard’ – a spiky throat pouch that the dragon can puff out when it feels threatened or excited, turning a darker shade to intimidate potential predators. The dragon’s body is typically a mix of grey, brown, and black, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the rocky and wooded environments it calls home.

The Eastern Bearded Dragon is a master of thermoregulation. It can often be seen basking in the sun to warm up or retreating to the shade to cool down, maintaining the perfect body temperature. They are excellent climbers and can often be found perched in trees or on fences, surveying their territory.

 These dragons are native to eastern Australia, stretching from Queensland down through New South Wales and into Victoria. They thrive in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, scrublands, and even urban areas where they can often be seen basking on warm surfaces.

While Eastern Bearded Dragons are not known for vocalising, they communicate through body language. Their display of the beard, head bobbing, and arm waving are all part of their repertoire for interacting with other dragons and signalling their intentions.

As omnivores, these dragons have a diverse diet. They feast on a variety of insects, such as crickets and beetles, and enjoy munching on flowers, fruits, and leafy greens. This varied diet helps them thrive in the wild, where food availability can change with the seasons.

Breeding season for the Eastern Bearded Dragon typically occurs in the warmer months. Males will display their beards and perform head bobs to attract females. After mating, the female lays a clutch of eggs, usually buried in a sandy or soft soil area. The eggs incubate for about two months before hatching.

In the wild, these dragons can live for up to 10 years.

Fortunately, the Eastern Bearded Dragon is not currently considered endangered. It is classified as Least Concern by conservation authorities, thanks to its wide distribution and stable population.

However, like many native species Eastern Bearded Dragons face threats such as habitat loss, predation by domestic  and  feral animals such as dogs, cats and foxes, as well as illegal collection for the pet trade.

They have a third eye, known as a parietal eye, on top of their head. It’s not used for seeing images but helps them detect changes in light and shadow, aiding in predator detection.

In the grand tapestry of Australia’s wildlife, the Eastern Bearded Dragon stands out as a symbol of adaptability and resilience. Its story is a reminder of the intricate balance of nature and the importance of preserving the diverse ecosystems that support such incredible creatures. Through understanding and appreciation, we can ensure that the bearded dragon continues to thrive for generations to come.