Are you interested in owning a bearded dragon in Florida? If so, you should know that owning a bearded dragon in the state of Florida is legal, but there are certain regulations in place that you must follow.
It is important to understand the requirements and restrictions that come along with owning one of these reptiles. In this article, we will be exploring the legalities of owning a bearded dragon in Florida, as well as discussing the housing, breeding and feeding requirements that come with owning one.
We will also go over the necessary licensing requirements that must be met in order to keep a bearded dragon as a pet.
Key Takeaways
- Owning bearded dragons in Florida requires a reptile-of-concern permit from FWC.
- FWC regulates possession and release of reptiles, and breeding them requires a permit to sell as pets.
- Care requirements for bearded dragons include special attention, suitable enclosure size and temperature, substrate options, lighting, hiding spots, and feeding guidelines.
- Licensing requirements for breeding bearded dragons include adhering to regulations and transportation guidelines, as well as analyzing the cost of licensing.
what are the requirements to legally own a bearded dragon in Florida?
Bearded dragons are legal to own in Florida, but you’ll need to get a reptile-of-concern permit from the FWC to do so – and make sure you take the necessary precautions to keep your bearded dragon safe and healthy.
It’s important to note that the FWC regulates the possession and release of reptiles in the state, and this permit allows you to possess both native and non-native reptiles.
Bearded dragons require special care and attention, so you should research the needs of this species and purchase from a reputable pet store before bringing one home. When it comes to owning a bearded dragon in Florida, you’ll need to be aware of the following:
Product Specs:
- Bearded dragons are not illegal in Florida
- You must get a reptile-of-concern permit from the FWC
- Bearded dragons require special care and attention
Pros:
- You can purchase bearded dragons from a variety of pet stores in Florida
- A reptile-of-concern permit allows you to possess both native and non-native reptiles
Cons:
- There may be restrictions on other reptile species in the state
- You need to take certain precautions to ensure the safety and wellbeing of your bearded dragon if you plan to keep it outside.
Housing Requirements
You’ll need to provide a suitable enclosure for your pet in order to keep them safe and healthy. To ensure your bearded dragon is living in a comfortable and healthy environment, there are a few essential requirements you’ll need to meet.
Firstly, the enclosure size should be at least 20 gallons for an adult dragon, and up to 40 gallons for multiple dragons.
Secondly, the enclosure should provide a temperature gradient, with one half of the enclosure being slightly warmer than the other half.
Lastly, you’ll need to consider the substrate options, lighting needs, and hiding spots when setting up the enclosure.
The substrate should be non-toxic and absorbent, such as paper towels or reptile carpet. For lighting, your bearded dragon will need a source of UVB light and a basking light. Placing hiding spots around the enclosure will make your dragon feel secure and comfortable.
Make sure to check the temperature of the enclosure regularly to ensure your dragon is not getting too hot or too cold. With the proper housing requirements, your bearded dragon can live a long and healthy life.
are there any restrictions on breeding bearded dragons in Florida?
If you’re considering breeding bearded dragons, it’s important to check the regulations in your state beforehand.
In Florida, there are no specific restrictions on breeding bearded dragons. However, if you wish to sell reptiles as pets, you must get a reptile-of-concern permit from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
It’s important to be aware of the breeding regulations, obtain a breeding permit if necessary, and conduct genetic testing to ensure healthy offspring.
Additionally, it’s important to consider the ethics of breeding and the market demand for the species.
Feeding Guidelines
To keep your pet healthy and thriving, it’s important to understand the best feeding guidelines for bearded dragons.
When it comes to prey types, crickets, mealworms, waxworms, and other insects should be the primary source of nutrition for your pet. It’s also important to provide calcium and other vitamin and mineral supplements to ensure proper nutrition.
In terms of feeding frequency, juvenile bearded dragons should be fed every day with adults being fed every other day. When it comes to portion sizes, you should feed your pet enough insects so that their stomach is slightly rounded.
Lastly, you should make sure that your pet has access to fresh water to meet their hydration needs.
Following these feeding guidelines will help ensure that your pet stays healthy and happy. Be sure to consult with a veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about the dietary needs of your pet.
Licensing Requirements
Owning a pet is a responsibility, and having the proper licensing is an important part of that.
When it comes to owning a bearded dragon in Florida, it is important to be aware of the various licensing requirements that come with this responsibility.
Breeder regulations must be adhered to, as age restrictions apply, as well as health concerns that must be taken into account.
Transportation guidelines must be followed in order to ensure the safety of the animal. It’s also important to analyze the cost of obtaining the proper licensing in order to ensure that you’re able to provide a safe and healthy environment for your bearded dragon.
