By Rankin’s dragons (Pogona henrylawsoni) are fascinating reptiles native to Queensland, Australia, and have become increasingly popular as pets due to their smaller size, docile nature, and relatively low-maintenance requirements. If you are considering adding a Rankin’s dragon to your household, it is essential to understand their care needs to provide them with a healthy and comfortable environment. This comprehensive guide will discuss everything you need to know about Rankin’s dragon care, from enclosure setup and diet to potential health issues and behavior.
Table of Contents
Species Summary
Rankin’s dragons, also known as Lawson’s dragons, dumpy dragons, dwarf bearded dragons, or black soil bearded dragons, are a familiar-looking lizard species belonging to the Pogona genus. They have a unique appearance with round heads, slender bodies, and rough, spiky skin. These lizards are semi-arboreal, meaning they spend some time climbing and basking in high places.
Their popularity as pets stems from their social nature, making them great options for pet owners looking for a reptile that doesn’t mind being handled. However, before you bring one home, it’s crucial to have a strong understanding of their habitat and care requirements.
Difference Between a Rankin’s Dragon and a Bearded Dragon
Although Rankin’s dragons are frequently mistaken for bearded dragons, there are some key differences between these two species. The most notable difference is their size, with Rankin’s dragons being several inches smaller than bearded dragons. This means that they do not require as large of an enclosure as their larger cousins. Additionally, Rankin’s dragons have rounder heads and a more varied coloration than bearded dragons.
In terms of behavior, Rankin’s dragons are generally more social and even-tempered than bearded dragons, making them suitable for being kept in small colonies and tolerant of handling.
Lifespan
A healthy Rankin’s dragon can live between six and ten years, with some owners reporting lifespans of up to 15 years, although this is quite rare. Like any other pet, there are no guarantees when it comes to life expectancy. Rankin’s dragons can be susceptible to disease and will respond poorly to substandard living conditions and lackluster care. Providing them with the best care possible, including a proper diet and husbandry, will help ensure their health and longevity.
Appearance
Rankin’s dragons possess many iconic characteristics, including a relatively slender body and larger rounded head. Their skin is covered in rough, raised bumps and thorn-like protrusions, which provide a unique texture. However, this texture is not harmful to human skin.
Their coloration is designed to provide camouflage in the wild and includes various shades of brown, green, and gray. The patterns and morphs of Rankin’s dragons can vary widely, with some individuals displaying eye-catching stripes, while others may have a more spotted appearance. These patterns typically extend across the back of the reptile, while their belly usually has a lighter solid color.
Average Size
Adult Rankin’s dragons typically reach a full size of 10 to 12 inches in length. Females tend to be slightly larger and more robust than males, which allows them to accommodate eggs when fully matured. The size of these reptiles can be influenced by factors such as genetics and care, so providing a healthy environment and diet will help them reach their maximum potential size.
Enclosure Requirements
Enclosure Size
The most important element of Rankin’s dragon care is providing an appropriate enclosure. These lizards thrive in well-ventilated glass enclosures, meaning at least one side should be covered in durable mesh or high-quality screen material. Most owners opt for enclosures with a screened top and sliding glass doors on the front, which allows for easy access and helps maintain proper humidity levels.
A suitable enclosure for a single Rankin’s dragon should measure at least 48 inches wide, 24 inches long, and 24 inches high, which is roughly the size of a 40-gallon tank. If you plan on keeping a small group of Rankin’s dragons, you will need a larger enclosure to provide ample space for exploration and social interaction.
Enclosure Setup
Rankin’s dragons are semi-arboreal and enjoy climbing and basking in high places. However, they do not require the extensive vertical space that some other lizard species might need. Instead, provide several strategically placed branches, climbing bridges, vines, and reptile hammocks throughout the enclosure. Additionally, include slate rocks for basking and ensure that all climbing accessories are safe and free from protruding parts that could cause injury.
Plants, either real or fake, can be added to the enclosure for added visual interest and to provide hiding spots for your Rankin’s dragon. However, plants alone should not be relied upon for shelter. Include at least one hide in the enclosure, and if space permits, multiple hides are even better.
For the enclosure’s substrate, several options are suitable for Rankin’s dragons, including paper towels, newspapers, shelf liners, tiles, reptile sand, or dry coconut fiber. Avoid using gravel or any other substrate with small pieces that the lizard may accidentally swallow.
Temperature and Lighting
Rankin’s dragons require a gradient of temperatures within their enclosure to regulate their body temperature effectively. The cool end of the enclosure should be maintained around 80°F, while the opposite end, where the basking spot is located, should reach temperatures between 100°F and 110°F. A basking light can be used to achieve the desired temperature at the warm end of the enclosure.
Maintain a day-night cycle by keeping the light on for 10 to 12 hours daily and turning it off at night. If the temperature in your area drops to the low 70s at night, a ceramic heat emitter may be necessary to maintain stable temperatures without emitting light.
In addition to a basking light, Rankin’s dragons also require a UVB bulb to synthesize vitamin D and metabolize calcium properly. A 10 or 12-percent UVB lamp should cover at least two-thirds of the enclosure and be exposed for 12 to 14 hours daily. Replace the UVB bulb every six months to prevent potential health problems related to inadequate UV exposure.
Humidity
Rankin’s dragons prefer moderate humidity levels, with an ideal range of around 40 percent. This can be achieved with an automatic misting system or by manually misting the enclosure each day. Using a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels is essential to maintain a healthy environment, as excess humidity can lead to respiratory infections and premature shedding.
Water
While Rankin’s dragons obtain hydration through various means, such as lapping up water droplets on plant leaves or absorbing humidity from the air, it is still crucial to provide a dish of clean water in the enclosure. This dish should be large enough for the lizard to climb into and shallow enough to prevent drowning. Ensure that the water dish is sturdy and resistant to tipping over, and replace the water regularly to maintain cleanliness.
Diet and Feeding
Rankin’s dragons are omnivores, thriving on a diet of insects and vegetables. They readily accept various food items, so it is important to provide a diverse and balanced diet. Approximately 60 percent of their diet should consist of insects, with the remaining 40 percent being vegetables.
Suitable insects for Rankin’s dragon include crickets, black soldier fly larvae, silkworms, mealworms, dubia roaches, and waxworms, although waxworms should only be offered as occasional treats. For vegetables, consider offering collard greens, arugula, turnip greens, and dandelion.
Adult Rankin’s dragons should be fed daily, and their food can be dusted with calcium supplements a few times a week to prevent health issues.
Potential Health Issues
Rankin’s dragons can be susceptible to several common health issues affecting reptiles in captivity. These include respiratory infections, yellow fungus, impaction, and metabolic bone disease. Maintaining a clean enclosure, providing a balanced diet, and closely monitoring temperature and humidity levels will help prevent these health issues and ensure your Rankin’s dragon remains happy and healthy.
Behavior and Temperament
Rankin’s dragons are known for their docile and social nature, making them suitable for being kept in small colonies. Female Rankin’s dragons can be housed together without significant issues, while males may display territorial behavior if kept with other males. If housing multiple Rankin’s dragons, try to maintain a ratio of one male to at least two females.
These lizards can be shy and skittish when young, but they become more comfortable and active as they grow older. Adult Rankin’s dragons typically enjoy exploring their enclosures and basking in the light.
Handling Rankin’s Dragons
Rankin’s dragons are generally tolerant of handling as adults, and many owners even allow them to roam outside of their enclosures. If you plan on handling your Rankin’s dragon, ensure that the room is secure and free of hiding spots where the lizard could escape. Always wash your hands before and after handling your lizard to prevent the spread of bacteria and disease.
Conclusion
Rankin’s dragon care is relatively straightforward, making them an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced reptile enthusiasts. By providing a suitable enclosure, a balanced diet, and proper husbandry, you can ensure your Rankin’s dragon remains healthy and happy for years to come. If you have any questions or concerns about Rankin’s dragon care, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional or fellow reptile hobbyists for advice and guidance.