Bearded Dragon
Cheeto and Aughra both came to The Zoo as surrendered pets. Cheeto is named for the bright orange beard he has, which makes it look like he's been eating a lot of cheetos. Being so friendly and easy to handle, Cheeto goes on many education programs off-site. Aughra is younger and still maturing, but will likely join our team of ambassador animals as an adult.
Scientific name
Pogona vitticeps
Lifespan
5-8 years in the wild, 10-15 years under human care
Range
There are 8 species are bearded dragon, and all live in the deserts and shrublands of Australia.
Diet
Bearded dragons are omnivores that eat a variety of leafy greens and vegetables as well as insects such as mealworms, crickets, and small roaches.
Social Structure
Bearded dragons get their name from the spiky beard below their chin. When threatened or when trying to attract a mate, they will inflate this beard as a display. Adult bearded dragons are very territorial in the wild.
Conservation Status
Threats in the Wild
There are currently no notable threats to the bearded dragon. Minor threats to certain species include predation by foxes and house cats and habitat degradation due to livestock.
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