Frilled dragons (Chlamydosaurus kingii) are one of the most unique and captivating reptiles to keep as pets. Native to the northern regions of Australia and New Guinea, these lizards are known for their distinctive frills around their necks, which they flare out when threatened or excited. Their stunning appearance and engaging behavior make them highly sought after in the reptile community. However, before bringing a frilled dragon into your home, it’s important to be well-prepared to meet their specific care needs. To help you create a safe and comfortable environment for your frilled dragon, here’s a guide to the 7 essential supplies you’ll need.

1. A Spacious Enclosure

Frilled dragons are active lizards that require a lot of space to thrive. When choosing an enclosure, it’s essential to select a large and tall tank to accommodate their need for climbing, exploring, and basking. A 75-gallon tank is generally the minimum recommended size for one adult frilled dragon, although larger enclosures will always be better. A vertical setup is ideal since frilled dragons enjoy climbing and need space to move around both horizontally and vertically.

Look for an enclosure that has good ventilation, as frilled dragon for sale near meneed fresh air to stay healthy. Mesh or wire cages are a good option, but you’ll want to make sure they are escape-proof and not too large to prevent the dragon from feeling insecure in a vast, empty space. The tank should also be easy to clean and secure to keep your dragon safe from potential hazards.

2. Proper Lighting and UVB Bulbs

Like many reptiles, frilled dragons require ultraviolet (UV) light for proper health. UVB light is critical for their ability to synthesize vitamin D3, which helps them absorb calcium. Without adequate UVB exposure, frilled dragons can develop metabolic bone disease (MBD), which can cause deformities, paralysis, and even death.

A high-quality UVB light, such as a T5 HO fluorescent bulb, should be positioned at the top of the enclosure. This light should be on for about 10-12 hours a day to mimic the natural day-night cycle. In addition to UVB, frilled dragons also need basking lights that provide heat. The basking spot should reach around 95-100°F (35-38°C) during the day, while the ambient temperature in the enclosure should remain between 75-85°F (24-29°C). At night, temperatures can drop to around 65-70°F (18-21°C), but it’s important not to let them get too cold.

A ceramic heat emitter or basking bulb can provide the necessary heat, but always monitor temperatures using a thermometer, as overheating can be as dangerous as being too cold.

3. Substrate for the Enclosure

Choosing the right substrate is crucial for your frilled dragon’s comfort and health. The substrate should allow for proper humidity control and be safe for the dragon. Avoid using sand or loose substrates that may be ingested, as they can cause impaction in reptiles.

A safe and popular choice is reptile carpet or artificial grass. These options are easy to clean, help maintain humidity, and are less likely to be ingested. If you prefer a more naturalistic setup, coconut husk fiber, cypress mulch, or aspen bedding can also work well. These substrates allow the frilled dragon to dig, which is important for its mental stimulation.

However, make sure the substrate remains dry and clean to prevent bacterial growth and mold. Spot-clean the enclosure daily and do a full substrate change every few weeks to ensure a sanitary environment.

4. Hiding Spots and Climbing Structures

Frilled dragons are arboreal creatures, meaning they spend much of their time in trees or other high areas in the wild. In captivity, providing vertical space for climbing is essential for their well-being. You should include branches, logs, or rocks that allow your frilled dragon to climb, rest, and bask. These should be sturdy and placed securely in the enclosure.

In addition to climbing structures, hiding spots are just as important. Frilled dragons are naturally shy and need places where they can retreat and feel secure. You can add artificial caves, hides made of cork bark, or even pieces of driftwood that create sheltered spaces for them to relax. These hiding spots should be placed at different levels within the enclosure to give your dragon options.

It’s important to ensure that all decorations and accessories are safely installed to avoid any accidents or injuries.

5. Feeding Dishes and Water Source

Frilled dragons are omnivores, meaning their diet consists of both animal and plant matter. They eat a variety of insects, including crickets, mealworms, and waxworms, as well as vegetables, fruits, and greens like collard greens, dandelion greens, and squash. To feed them effectively, you’ll need a sturdy, shallow feeding dish to hold both their insect prey and fresh vegetables.

A separate water dish should also be provided, as frilled dragons drink frequently. Make sure the water is shallow enough that the dragon can access it without risking drowning. Many frilled dragons also enjoy drinking from droplets on leaves or surfaces, so misting the enclosure with water can help supplement their hydration. If your frilled dragon is reluctant to drink from a bowl, offering a gentle misting once or twice a day can encourage them to drink more.

6. Calcium and Vitamin Supplements

To ensure the health and longevity of your frilled dragon, it’s essential to provide a balanced diet with the proper nutrients. Calcium is particularly important to avoid metabolic bone disease (MBD), a condition that occurs when the lizard’s bones weaken due to a lack of calcium.

You can provide calcium supplements by dusting live insects with a calcium powder, which can be purchased from most reptile supply stores. Additionally, multivitamin supplements with added vitamin D3 can help support overall health. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage guidelines to avoid over-supplementing, as too much calcium or vitamin D3 can cause health issues.

Frilled dragons, like many reptiles, require proper nutrition and supplementation to thrive in captivity.

7. Humidity Control

Frilled dragons come from environments that are often humid, so maintaining the proper humidity level in their enclosure is important for their overall health and comfort. Ideal humidity levels should be between 50-60%, but it is essential to avoid excessive moisture, as this can lead to respiratory problems or fungal infections.

To maintain the proper humidity, consider adding a humidifier to the room or misting the enclosure with water once or twice a day. You can also use hygrometers to monitor humidity levels inside the enclosure. If the humidity drops too low, it may lead to dehydration or shedding issues, so keeping an eye on it is important.

Conclusion

Owning a frilled dragon is a rewarding experience, but it requires thoughtful preparation and care. By providing a spacious enclosure, proper lighting, the right substrates, and adequate nutrition, you’ll ensure your frilled dragon lives a happy, healthy life in your home. These seven essential supplies will help you create an environment where your frilled dragon can thrive and display its beautiful frills to their fullest potential.