Chinese Water Dragons: A Complete Care Guide and Where to Buy Live Food Online

Chinese water dragons are fascinating and beautiful reptiles that make great pets for experienced reptile owners. In this complete care guide, we will cover everything you need to know to keep your Chinese water dragon healthy and happy. Plus, we'll show you where to buy live food online to make caring for your dragon even easier.

Housing

Chinese water dragons are active lizards and require a large, spacious enclosure. A single adult should be housed in a terrarium that is at least 6 feet long, 3 feet wide, and 6 feet tall. Younger dragons can be housed in smaller enclosures, but as they grow, they will require more space. The enclosure should be secure to prevent escape and to provide a controlled environment for your pet.

UVB Lighting

Chinese water dragons require access to UVB radiation to properly metabolize calcium and maintain healthy bones. UVB lighting should be provided for 10-12 hours per day, and the strength of the UVB bulb should be appropriate for the size of the enclosure. As a general rule, a UVB bulb with a strength of 5.0 or higher is recommended for Chinese water dragons. The UVB bulb should be replaced every 6-12 months, even if it still appears to be functioning, as the UVB output decreases over time.

Heating

Proper heating is essential for the health of your Chinese water dragon. A basking spot should be provided in the enclosure, with a temperature range of 95-105°F (35-40°C). To achieve this temperature range, a basking lamp should be used. It is recommended to use a ceramic heat emitter or other non-light emitting heat source at night to maintain the enclosure temperature. The rest of the enclosure should be cooler, with temperatures ranging from 80-85°F (27-29°C). To monitor the temperature in the enclosure, a thermometer should be placed in the basking area and another in the cooler area. This will help you ensure that your Chinese water dragon has access to the appropriate temperature gradient for their health and comfort.

Humidity

Chinese water dragons require a high level of humidity to thrive. The enclosure should be misted several times a day to maintain a humidity level of 60-80%. A large water bowl should also be provided for your pet to soak in, as this will help maintain proper hydration and humidity levels.

Feeding: Chinese water dragons are omnivores and require a varied diet that includes live insects, such as crickets, mealworms, and waxworms, as well as leafy greens and fruits. It's important to ensure that any live food is gut-loaded and dusted with calcium and vitamin supplements before feeding.

Supplements: To ensure your Chinese water dragon is getting all the necessary vitamins and minerals, it's important to supplement their diet with calcium and multivitamin powder. This website offers a range of supplements that can be easily added to your cart along with your live food orders.

Where to Buy Live Food Online: Buying live food for your Chinese water dragon has never been easier. This website offers a wide range of live insects, including crickets, mealworms, and waxworms, as well as frozen rodents, all delivered straight to your door. Plus, with their new design of livefood tubs, they can fit through your letterbox, so you never have to worry about missed deliveries or collecting from a post office.

Behavior

Chinese water dragons are social animals and can be kept in pairs or small groups. However, males can be territorial and aggressive towards each other, so it is best to house males and females separately unless breeding. These lizards are also great swimmers and enjoy soaking in water. A shallow water dish should be provided, and the enclosure should be misted frequently to maintain proper humidity levels.

Conclusion

Proper care of Chinese water dragons requires a dedicated effort to provide a suitable environment and diet for these fascinating lizards. By following the guidelines outlined in this care guide, you can ensure that your Chinese water dragon is happy and healthy in their new home. Remember to provide plenty of space, proper heating and lighting, and a nutritious diet to keep your pet thriving for years to come.