Why Uromastyx and Bearded Dragons Can't Live Together

Uromastyx and Bearded Dragons are both captivating lizards that are very popular among reptile enthusiasts. Due to a few shared characteristics, some people think that they can be housed together. Although it might appear like a good idea to cohabitate these reptiles to save space and money, be aware that it will be at the cost of your pets’ health and well-being. If you are not yet fully convinced, we will explain in this article why uromastyx and bearded dragons make incompatible cagemates.

The Size Difference Is Dangerous

While both uromastyx and bearded dragons are similar in appearance, their size difference is actually quite significant. Bearded dragons can grow up to 24 inches in length, while uromastyx typically range from 10 to 15 inches. This size discrepancy can lead to serious problems if they are housed together. Bearded dragons have been known to attack or even consume smaller lizards, and uromastyx are no exception.

In addition, uromastyx have unique needs that are not the same as those of bearded dragons. Housing them together would be detrimental to both species, as they require different levels of heat, light and humidity. In conclusion, while it may seem cost-effective to house these reptiles together, doing so would ultimately jeopardize their health and well-being, making it imperative to keep them separate.

They Are Both Territorial Creatures

In addition to the significant size difference, uromastyx and bearded dragons are both highly territorial creatures. They have different habits, behavior patterns, and activity levels that make cohabitation impossible. Bearded dragons are social animals, but they prefer being with their own kind. They also establish a territory that they fiercely defend against intruders. Uromastyx, on the other hand, are solitary animals that tend to be more aggressive when it comes to defending their territory.

Housing two different species together can lead to competition for resources, including food, water, and space. This can result in stress, aggression, and even injury for both lizards, especially when they are kept in a confined space. In fact, bearded dragons have a tendency to display dominance behavior, which can be very intimidating to smaller lizards like uromastyx. They may attack or even kill a smaller lizard in an attempt to assert their dominance.

They Have Different Habitat Requirements

It is also important to note that uromastyx and bearded dragons have different habitat requirements. Bearded dragons are native to Australia and require a basking spot with a temperature of 95-110°F, a cooler area around 80°F, and a UVB light source for 10-14 hours per day. They also need a substrate that can maintain proper humidity levels and provide hiding places. On the other hand, uromastyx are native to North Africa and the Middle East and need a much drier environment. They prefer a basking spot with a temperature of 100-120°F, a cooler area around 80°F, and no need for UVB lighting. They also require a substrate that allows for digging and burrowing.

They Have Different Diets

Apart from the differences in size, territory, and habitat requirements, bearded dragons and uromastyx also have distinct dietary needs and feeding habits. Bearded dragons are omnivorous, meaning they consume a variety of vegetables, fruits, and insects. Vegetables and fruits should make up around 20-30% of their diet, with the remaining 70-80% consisting of insects such as crickets, roaches, and mealworms. Offering a varied diet is essential for their health and well-being, as it provides them with the necessary nutrients, vitamins, and minerals they require.

On the other hand, uromastyx are herbivorous. These lizards rarely consume insects or meat and instead, prefer a diet of fresh leafy greens, vegetables, and fruits. They are particularly fond of dandelion greens, collard greens, mustard greens, and squash. Although uromastyx do not require as much protein as bearded dragons, they still need adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D in their diet to maintain their bone health. Therefore, providing them with a varied diet that includes calcium-rich foods such as kale, broccoli, and carrots is essential.

Feeding habits also differ between these two species. Bearded dragons are daytime feeders and are active during the day, while uromastyx are more active in the early morning and late afternoon. In the wild, they would spend most of their day searching for food and water. However, in captivity, it is crucial to establish a feeding routine that mimics your pets' natural behavior.

They Become More Prone To Disease Transmission

Bearded dragons and uromastyx have distinct immune systems and are susceptible to different pathogens. When housed together, they can easily infect each other with diseases that they would not normally encounter in their natural environment.

For instance, Bearded dragons are known to carry a bacterium called Salmonella, which can cause serious illness in humans. On the other hand, uromastyx are prone to respiratory infections and skin diseases that can easily spread to other lizards. When these two species are housed together, there is a higher risk of cross-contamination. Moreover, overcrowding a habitat or keeping lizards in unsanitary conditions can further increase the risk of disease transmission.

Additionally, when lizards are stressed, their immune system weakens, making them more susceptible to illness. Living in a confined space with a rival species can cause immense stress, leading to a higher likelihood that they will contract diseases.

Therefore, it is crucial to house lizards in separate enclosures to prevent the spread of diseases and maintain their overall health and well-being. Furthermore, regular cleaning of their habitat, proper nutrition, and appropriate temperature and humidity levels can aid in their immune system's effectiveness.

Is Group Housing Still Possible?

When the disadvantages clearly outweigh the benefits, it is safe to say that cohabitating with uromastyx and bearded dragons is simply a no-go. You might ask, then, whether group housing the same species of either lizard is ideal? Typically, females are less aggressive and can be housed together in groups of usually two or three. Males, however, should be housed alone or with a few females if you are knowledgeable and interested in breeding them.