Are you looking for the perfect pet? Reptiles are increasingly becoming popular pets for people of all ages due to their unique characteristics and ease of care. Two of the most popular reptiles kept as pets are the Ackie Monitor and the Bearded Dragon.
In this article, we will be taking a closer look at these two species and exploring the differences between them. We will also be discussing their care requirements, temperament, and potential size.
At first glance, the Ackie Monitor and Bearded Dragon may look quite similar, but they have some very distinct differences. The Ackie Monitor is native to Australia and is a medium-sized lizard, while the Bearded Dragon is native to parts of Australia and is a smaller lizard.
In terms of temperament, Ackie Monitors are typically more active and require more attention than the Bearded Dragon. They are also known to be more territorial and possessive.
Bearded Dragons, on the other hand, are known to be less active and are typically more docile. Both species can make great pets, but it is important to understand the differences between them.
What Are the Similarities Between Ackie Monitor and Bearded Dragon?
Both the Ackie Monitor and the Bearded Dragon are medium-sized lizards, reaching around 2 feet in length. The Ackie Monitor is a carnivore, while the Bearded Dragon is an omnivore. Both animals have a generally docile temperament, making them popular pets.
Size
One similarity between the Ackie monitor and the Bearded dragon is size. While Ackie monitors can grow up to 24 inches in length, Bearded dragons typically grow up to 18-24 inches.
Both species, however, are much smaller than many other lizards. Ackie monitors and Bearded dragons also have similar body shapes, with long, slim bodies, short legs, and long tails. The Ackie monitor, however, has a more pointed snout and a smaller head.
Ackie monitors and Bearded dragons also have similar needs in terms of space in captivity. Ackie monitors require a large enclosure and Bearded dragons need a minimum of a 40-50 gallon tank. Both species also require climbing branches and adequate lighting.
In terms of size, Ackie monitors and Bearded dragons have several similarities, such as their overall body shape, length and space requirements.
- Body Shape: Both species have long, slim bodies, short legs and long tails.
- Length: Ackie monitors can grow up to 24 inches in length and Bearded dragons typically grow up to 18-24 inches.
- Space Requirements: Ackie monitors require a large enclosure and Bearded dragons need a minimum of a 40-50 gallon tank.
These similarities make them both popular choices for those looking to have a reptile as a pet.
Diet
Having discussed the size of Ackie Monitors and Bearded Dragons, the next topic of comparison is their diet. Both species are omnivorous, meaning they feed on a combination of plant and animal matter. However, they have slightly different diets.
- Ackie Monitors:
- In the wild, they feed on insects, small lizards, and carrion.
- In captivity, they can be fed live insects, such as crickets and mealworms, as well as frozen mice.
- Bearded Dragons:
- In the wild, they feed on insects, small lizards, and vegetation.
- In captivity, they can be fed live insects, such as crickets and mealworms, as well as various vegetables and fruits.
Overall, the diets of Ackie Monitors and Bearded Dragons have some similarities, such as the preference for insects, but they also have distinct differences, such as the Ackie Monitor’s preference for carrion and the Bearded Dragon’s preference for vegetables and fruits.
Temperament
In terms of temperament, Ackie monitors and bearded dragons have several similarities. Both species are generally considered relatively gentle, docile reptiles. Additionally, they both tend to be more active during the day, or diurnal.
When it comes to handling, Ackie monitors and bearded dragons can both be quite docile. They can become quite tame with frequent gentle handling and can even enjoy being around people. However, it is important to remember that they are still wild animals and can become stressed or defensive if handled too roughly.
Ackie monitors and bearded dragons also share some similar behaviors. Both lizards may wave their arms or bob their heads in a display of dominance, and both may puff out their beards when threatened. Additionally, both species may become territorial when kept in captivity and may not coexist peacefully with other lizards.
Overall, Ackie monitors and bearded dragons have quite similar temperaments. They are both relatively gentle and docile lizards that can become quite tame with frequent gentle handling. They also share some similar behaviors, such as waving their arms or bobbing their heads in a display of dominance.
- Gentle
- Tame with frequent gentle handling
- Still wild animals
- Diurnal
- Display dominance
- Puff out beards when threatened
- May become territorial
- May not coexist peacefully with other lizards
What Are the Differences Between Ackie Monitor and Bearded Dragon?
The Ackie Monitor and Bearded Dragon vary in size, temperament, and diet. Firstly, the Ackie Monitor is typically larger than the Bearded Dragon.
Secondly, the Ackie Monitor is more aggressive in temperament compared to the Bearded Dragon, which is more docile.
Lastly, the Ackie Monitor typically feeds on insects and lizards, while the Bearded Dragon usually feeds on vegetables and fruits.
Size
Though Ackie Monitors and Bearded Dragons share many similarities, there are a few distinct differences that set them apart. Notably, they differ in size.
The Ackie Monitor is a much larger species than the Bearded Dragon, reaching up to 24 inches in length. In comparison, the average Bearded Dragon grows to 18-24 inches in length. This difference in size can make the Ackie Monitor more challenging to care for.
Furthermore, Ackie Monitors require significantly larger enclosures than Bearded Dragons. To provide a suitable environment, Ackie Monitors should be housed in an enclosure that is at least four feet long, two feet wide, and two feet tall.
On the other hand, Bearded Dragons can be comfortably housed in an enclosure that is three feet long, one foot wide, and one foot tall.
- Ackie Monitor
- Length: Up to 24 inches
- Enclosure Size: At least four feet long, two feet wide, and two feet tall
- Bearded Dragon
- Length: 18-24 inches
- Enclosure Size: Three feet long, one foot wide, and one foot tall
Overall, the size difference between the Ackie Monitor and the Bearded Dragon is one of the most obvious distinctions. Therefore, it’s important to consider this difference when deciding which species is the best fit for your home.
Temperament
While Ackie Monitors and Bearded Dragons may have a lot of similarities, their temperaments are notably different. As a general rule, Bearded Dragons are much more docile, making them more suitable for handling and for those who are new to owning reptiles.
Ackie Monitors, on the other hand, can be more nervous and skittish when confronted with unfamiliar stimuli.
The differences in temperaments can be attributed to the different environments they have evolved to inhabit. Bearded Dragons come from arid deserts, while Ackie Monitors come from areas with more canopy and foliage.
As a result, Ackie Monitors are more sensitive to changes in their environment and can become stressed more easily.
Below is an overview of the differences in temperament between Ackie Monitors and Bearded Dragons:
- Ackie Monitors:
- More skittish and nervous with unfamiliar stimuli
- More sensitive to changes in their environment and can become stressed more easily
- Bearded Dragons:
- Docile, making them more suitable for handling
- More tolerant of unfamiliar stimuli
Ultimately, it is important to research each species thoroughly before deciding on one to own, so that you can ensure you are able to provide the proper care and environment for them.
Diet
Having discussed the similarities between the Ackie Monitor and Bearded Dragon, now let’s take a look at their differences, starting with diet. While both species are omnivorous and enjoy a wide variety of food, there are some important differences in what they should eat.
The Ackie Monitor is a more active hunter and likes to feed on insects, small lizards, and other invertebrates. This reptile also enjoys eating fruits and vegetables. On the other hand, Bearded Dragons prefer a more vegetable-based diet.
They should be offered vegetables such as romaine lettuce, bell peppers, and squash. They also enjoy fruits such as mangoes and strawberries.
In addition, Bearded Dragons should be given an occasional treat, such as crickets, mealworms, and waxworms. These treats should be fed sparingly and only as a supplement to their regular diet.
Overall, the Ackie Monitor and Bearded Dragon have different dietary needs that should be taken into consideration when deciding which species is right for you.
- Ackie Monitor
- Insects
- Small lizards
- Invertebrates
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Bearded Dragon
- Vegetables (e.g. romaine lettuce, bell peppers, squash)
- Fruits (e.g. mangoes, strawberries)
- Occasional treats (e.g. crickets, mealworms, waxworms)
Ackie Monitor vs Bearded Dragon: Physical Appearance
Moving on from the behavioral differences between ackie monitors and bearded dragons, let’s talk about their physical characteristics. Ackie monitors are small-to-medium sized lizards, usually ranging from 16-22 inches in length.
They vary in color depending on the species, but most are typically patterned with a black or dark-green base and bright yellow or orange accents. They have a flat, triangular head, and sharp claws that they use for climbing and digging.
Bearded dragons, on the other hand, are a bit larger in size, usually measuring up to 24 inches in length. They usually have a light tan or yellow-brown base color, with spots or stripes in darker shades. They have a wide, triangular head with a long jaw, and sharp claws for gripping surfaces.
Both species have a spiked crest running down their backs, although the shape and size of the spikes can vary depending on the species. Ackie monitors have a more pronounced crest, whereas the beard of the bearded dragon is less prominent.
Overall, both species have a unique and fascinating look that is sure to capture the attention of any reptile enthusiast.
Ackie Monitor vs Bearded Dragon: Behavior
The physical appearance of the Ackie Monitor and the Bearded Dragon may be similar, but their behavior is vastly different.
The Ackie Monitor is an energetic and explorative reptile, known to scale walls and explore any given environment. They are also quite vocal and like to communicate with their owners.
On the other hand, the Bearded dragon is much calmer and tends to remain in one place. It is also a less vocal species, preferring to remain in its comfort zone.
When it comes to interaction, the Ackie Monitor is quite active and likes to explore, whereas the Bearded Dragon is more docile and prefers staying in its own enclosure.
Ackie Monitors will often seek out their owners for attention and can even become quite attached to them, while Bearded dragons may take some time to warm up to their owners and may not be as cuddly.
In terms of diet, Ackie Monitors are insectivores, meaning they mainly feed on live insects like crickets, mealworms, and waxworms. Bearded dragons, on the other hand, are omnivorous and will feed on a variety of foods, including fruits, veggies, insects, and even some small animals.
Overall, the Ackie Monitor and Bearded Dragon may have similar physical appearances, but their behavior is quite different. Ackie Monitors are much more active, vocal, and interactive, while Bearded dragons are more docile and prefer to stay in their own enclosure.
Ackie Monitor vs Bearded Dragon: Diet
Moving on from the behavior of the Ackie Monitor and Bearded Dragon, another major difference between the two species is their diet. Ackie Monitors are omnivorous, meaning they eat both plants and animals, while Bearded Dragons are strictly herbivorous, meaning they only eat plants.
Ackie Monitors consume a variety of insects, such as crickets, cockroaches, and mealworms, as well as leafy greens like kale and spinach. They also enjoy a wide variety of vegetables, fruits, and even some commercially prepared diets specifically designed for lizards.
On the other hand, Bearded Dragons mainly subsist on vegetable-based foods, with the occasional eating of insects like crickets and mealworms. They also feed on leafy greens such as dandelion greens and romaine lettuce, as well as other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and squash.
Ackie Monitors should be fed every day, while Bearded Dragons can be fed every other day. For both species, it is important to provide a variety of food so they receive all the necessary nutrients and vitamins they need.
When feeding Ackie Monitors, it is important to avoid offering them too many insects, as this can lead to an imbalanced diet. Bearded Dragons, on the other hand, should not be overfed on insects, as too much protein can cause them health issues.
Overall, it is essential to research the diet of the species you plan to adopt in order to ensure they are getting the proper nutrition.
Ackie Monitor vs Bearded Dragon: Enclosure
In addition to their diet, Ackie monitors and bearded dragons have distinct differences in terms of their enclosure requirements. Ackie monitors require an enclosure with a temperature gradient, which can be provided by a ceramic heat emitter, while a bearded dragon requires a basking spot, which can be provided by a basking bulb.
Ackie monitors are arboreal, so they need more vertical space in their enclosure than a bearded dragon does. An Ackie monitor enclosure should have plenty of climbing and basking opportunities, with the floor space being around the size of a 30-gallon tank.
On the other hand, bearded dragons should have an enclosure with a mix of flat and elevated surfaces, which can be provided by flat rocks and logs, and the enclosure should be around the size of a 40-gallon tank.
Furthermore, Ackie monitors and bearded dragons each require different levels of humidity. Ackie monitors require a higher humidity level, between 40 and 50%, while bearded dragons need a lower humidity level, between 20 and 30%.
Additionally, Ackie monitors need a humidity hide in their enclosure, while bearded dragons do not. For both species, it’s important to also provide adequate ventilation, but it should be noted that bearded dragons are more sensitive to draughts than Ackie monitors.
Finally, it’s important to provide both species with a suitable substrate, such as terrarium grade sand or soil, in order to provide the necessary traction for them to move around safely and comfortably.
Ackie Monitor vs Bearded Dragon: Lighting
The lighting needs of Ackie Monitors and Bearded Dragons may be similar, but there are still subtle differences between the two. To provide the optimal environment for both species, it is important to understand the differences in their lighting needs.
Unlike Bearded Dragons which require both UVA and UVB rays to help with their metabolism and the absorption of calcium, Ackie Monitors can survive solely on UVA lighting.
UVA lighting will provide the necessary heat, while also providing some beneficial effects of UVB lighting. It is important to note, however, that without UVB lighting, Ackie Monitors will be unable to properly absorb calcium, which can lead to metabolic bone disease.
Bearded Dragons, on the other hand, require both UVA and UVB lighting to properly absorb calcium and metabolize their food. In addition, they also require a basking light to provide a warm enough environment for them to thrive.
Without either UVA or UVB, Bearded Dragons are at risk of developing metabolic bone disease, skin problems, and other health issues. It is important to provide them with the right type of lighting to ensure they are getting the necessary nutrients.
Ackie Monitor vs Bearded Dragon: Handling
Moving on from the lighting requirements of Ackie Monitors and Bearded Dragons, let’s focus on handling. While both species have the potential to be handled, each species has its own unique requirements and limitations.
Ackie Monitors are generally considered to be more skittish and harder to handle than Bearded Dragons. Ackie Monitors require patience and slowly getting them used to being handled.
This can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the individual and how much time you are able to devote to taming your Ackie Monitor. It is important to give your Ackie Monitor enough time to get used to being handled, as this can help to prevent stress and potential injury.
Bearded Dragons, on the other hand, can often be much easier to handle than Ackie Monitors. Bearded Dragons tend to be more docile and can often be comfortable being handled from a young age.
This can make them a better option for those who are looking for a beginner reptile that is easy to handle. Bearded Dragons can also be trained to stay on their handler’s shoulder, which can make them great companions when out and about.
Ackie Monitor vs Bearded Dragon: Lifespan
Having discussed the differences in handling between Ackie Monitors and Bearded Dragons, let us turn our attention to one of the most fundamental questions about any species: lifespan.
Lifespan is a major factor in choosing any pet, as it determines how long you will be able to share your life with your companion. Ackie Monitors and Bearded Dragons differ significantly in terms of how long they will live.
Ackie Monitors typically have an average lifespan of 10-15 years, with some specimens living up to 20 years. This makes them a commitment that should not be taken lightly. With proper care, an Ackie Monitor can live a full and healthy life, and be a loyal companion for many years.
Bearded Dragons, on the other hand, usually live for 6-8 years, with some living up to 10. This shorter lifespan may be a benefit for those who are not yet ready to commit to a pet for many years. Despite having a shorter lifespan, Bearded Dragons can be great companions for a significant period of time.
When deciding on a pet, it is important to consider lifespan. Ackie Monitors and Bearded Dragons have significantly different lifespans, so it is important to consider which is the best fit for you and your lifestyle.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between an Ackie Monitor and a Bearded Dragon as a pet, there are a few factors to consider. Despite having some similarities, the two species have quite a few differences in terms of physical appearance, behavior, diet, enclosure, lighting, handling, and lifespan.
Ultimately, it comes down to the pet owner’s preferences and lifestyle, but both Ackie Monitors and Bearded Dragons can make excellent companions. No matter which reptile you choose, they both require dedication and respect in order to thrive.
