Day: September 22, 2022

A few days ago, I was quite surprised to see an Eastern Bearded Dragon sunning itself on the driveway. It has been a while since I have seen an Eastern Bearded Dragon on my place, so of course I had to grab a few photos.

It didn’t seem to mind me getting a few photos and didn’t move apart from turning its head to keep a watch on me. Here’s a bit about Bearded Dragons –

“They’re often seen basking on tree stumps, fence posts, branches or boulders. From here they can see predators, prey and mates, all the while soaking up some sun. Bearded dragons are primarily diurnal (day active), though in summer they’re busiest in the early morning and late afternoon. They’re omnivorous lizards: they eat fruits and leaves, invertebrates (such as ants and beetles) and small vertebrates, including other lizards.

When threatened or alarmed bearded dragons puff out their beards and face intruders with an open mouth. At the same time they expand their bodies by inhaling air, making them seem larger than life, and may emit a low hiss. (I am lucky this one didn’t seem to find me a threat and was quite calm.)

Researchers recently discovered that bearded dragons have primitive venom glands, though the venom has little effect on people.

The biggest threats to bearded dragons are habitat loss and degradation due to land clearing and cattle grazing. They’re also sadly sometimes illegally captured for the pet industry”

“I’m keeping an eye on you mister”

“No good sneaking up behind”

“Now where did he go?”

“I might as well let him show everyone my markings and colours…..

….and my sharp claws which are great for climbing and digging”

“I am rather handsome aren’t I?”

“Yes, handsome I said to you……yes you!”

“I can be quite dignified as well”

Information from https://www.bushheritage.org.au/species/bearded-dragons