Help with tank set up for Bearded Dragon
 

Hi, I'm getting a bearded dragon in a few weeks. I know a lot but I'm not an expert. I wanted to know what type of tank to get for a 12" beardie? I am a dunce at measuring sizes and things. I just know they come in gallons. I would have just got what ever was recommended when I did a search on the internet, but everyone says different things so I don't know what to get.

Also, what type of lighting can I get for a beardie?
I hear mega rays, repti sun, zillas (My cousin recommended the Zillas, says they're pretty good. Anyone have any experience?). Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

Also, any other tips I might not find online.

I wouldn't even consider the current size of the dragon, and assume an adult size around 18". I usually recommend a minimum of a 40 gallon breeder for one, or a 75 gallon would be even better. Avoid 30 gallon and 55 gallon sizes, as the 12" width usually isn't appreciated.

As for lighting, you'll want a basking area of around 100-110F, with the rest of the cage getting down into the low 80's or so (the 75 gallon is better if for anything, this reason). You can use any type of lighting for this. I usually use halogens from Home Depot. If your room temperature is too low at night, look into an infrared or ceramic bulb, though. You will also need UVB, so you will need a fluorescent light for this. Incandescent reptile bulbs don't do it, and that's a common misconception people have. I usually use either ZooMed or ExoTerra brands. You will usually see a number as well, such as 2.0, 5.0, 8.0, etc. You want to go high, like an 8.0 or 10.0. Replace this bulb every 6 months.

Everyone has their own way of doing these things, so it's not uncommon to get a ton of different answers. I'm sure someone else on here might have some other suggestions.

Well I don't know if I didn't know how to explain myself, I mean the beardie is 12", not that I was getting a 12" tank haha.

Thanks for the information. Well, my room is not insulated. So unfortunately, when its cold outside its REALLY cold, and when its warm, its VERY warm. I hate it, so should I use a ceramic or not?

So then, depending on the brand, I would use for example: ReptiSun 10.0, Zilla desert 50, and what about exo terra? I couldn't find which bulb that would be. I might end up getting the zillas. And as for the tank, I have no idea how much thats going to cost, but I have no choice I guess :biggrin:

I would definitely go with the 40 Gal. breeder. Unless you plan on breeding in the very near future, then I would go with something more substantial. If you go too big it's harder for them to feed, and crickets will sit around till they die.
If your room is really cold, I would suggest getting a large heat pad for the bottom of the tank, or if you have the money a radiant heat panel.... Either way put a space heater that's on a thermostat in that room. What part of the country are you in? It's very important to keep them very warm. I agree with draven on the lighting.