Water dragons require a lot of space due to their high activity level. A minimum of 45 gallons is recommended as a starter tank for dragons a year and under. For older dragons you may have to get or make a custom enclosure to suit their size.
Water Dragons tens to have a bad habit of rubbing their faces on glass which can cause mouth rot or even a broken jaw. This can be prevented by ensuring the enclosure is large enough and by cover the glass where the rubbing is occurring. Dragons love to climb, and additionally must have a basking area on the warm side of the tank. If you have more than one dragon, be sure to create more than one basking area. Choose branches that your dragon can climb on safely and lie on comfortably. The basking area can consist of branches and a platform positioned under the basking light so the dragon sits about six inches under the lamp. Lighting You will need a heat lamp and a UVB light for you enclosure. Exposure to UVB (ultraviolet B) light is critical in allowing an animal to synthesize vitamin D3 in their skin and metabolize calcium in their body. If an animal is not exposed to an adequate level of UVB light, it will gradually develop physical problems from the result of mineral deficiencies such as low blood calcium (hypocalcaemia), soft eggs (females), stunted growth and metabolic bone disorder, which can be fatal if left untreated. In addition, recent studies have linked sub-optimal vitamin D levels with poor immune system function. Substrate To help keep moisture I would recommend Eco Earth mixed with coconut chips and moss. Avoid AstroTurf and ceder chips which will hold no moisture. Water Water Dragons need a constant clean source of water they can both drink and soak from. Make sure the water dish is both deep enough for the dragon to submerge its body in but can easily be removed for cleaning. To help keep the moisture in the tank you may have to pray down the tank once or twice a day with a spray bottle or get an automated mister or sprayer. CAGE TEMPS: Day temps - 84-88℉ Basking - 90℉ Night temps - 75-80℉ HUMIDITY: 80% You will need both a temperature gauge and a humidity gauge to help you monitor these. |