Check out Australia Zoo’s Bearded Dragon!

You’ll need a keen eye to spot these spiky, sun-loving reptiles as they have mastered the art of camouflage!  For your chance to say g’day to these gorgeous lizards, check out our lizard display.

Several species of bearded dragons are found across Australia, typically in arid or semi-arid environments.  The east coast has its own distinct species and it is the one we have at Australia Zoo.  They acquired the name bearded dragon from the distinct beard-like skin under their jaws.  This ‘beard’ is used to bluff any would-be predators.  When feeling threatened, they will puff out their beard and show their spiny exterior.  Amazingly, these bearded beauties can regulate their own body temperature through changing colour!  They are able to slightly darken their colour in order to attract heat during cooler days.

Throughout breeding season, bearded dragons have a very intricate set of communication tools, and crikey, testosterone flies!  Males will strut their stuff in order to impress the ladies.  They bite each other’s tail, flare their beards and bob their heads to show dominance.  These dragons are omnivores.  They will patrol the warm daylight hours in search of small insects, vertebrates, fruits and leaves.

Whilst this species is still fairly common, they are often preyed upon by foxes, domestic dogs and cats, as well as hit on our roads by vehicles.  Help us keep this beautiful lizard safe by keeping an eye on your pets and watching out for them when driving on country roads.