Beardie vs Bluey:

Which is the Ultimate Pet Lizard?

 When it comes to choosing a reptile companion, the options can be overwhelming. Two popular choices among reptile enthusiasts are the Bearded Dragon and the Blue Tongue Skink. Both creatures bring a unique charm to the table, but which one is right for you? In this blog, we will delve into the advantages of owning a Bearded Dragon and a Blue Tongue Skink as pets. We will explore their popularity, maintenance requirements, and overall ease of care, helping you make an informed decision.

Popularity: In terms of popularity, Bearded Dragons have a significant edge. They have long been a staple in the reptile-keeping community and have gained a loyal following. Bearded Dragons are known for their friendly and sociable nature, making them a popular choice for beginners and experienced reptile enthusiasts alike. On the other hand, Blue Tongue Skinks are growing in popularity but are relatively less common as pets. They have a devoted fan base who appreciate their unique appearance and calm demeanor.

Due to their higher popularity and prevalence as pets, Bearded Dragons are generally more affordable compared to Blue Tongue Skinks.

Maintenance Requirements: When it comes to maintenance, both Bearded Dragons and Blue Tongue Skinks have specific needs, but there are some notable differences between the two.

Bearded Dragons: Bearded Dragons are diurnal reptiles, meaning they are active during the day. They require a properly sized enclosure with appropriate decorations, heating and lighting setups, including a basking spot and UVB lighting. Their diet primarily consists of insects and vegetables. They need a balanced diet to ensure optimal health, including calcium and vitamin supplementation. Regular cleaning of their enclosure is necessary to maintain hygiene. Beardies tend to defecate more frequently and can have a stronger odor than blue tonge skinks.

Blue Tongue Skinks: Blue Tongue Skinks are also diurnal reptiles, but they have slightly different habitat and dietary requirements. They need a spacious terrestrial enclosure with a warm basking area and a cooler retreat. Typically skink enclosures are not as interesting because they won't perch or climb branches and structures the way bearded dragons will. Blue tongue skinks tend to be more private than dragons and will often hide under the substrate if given the chance.

Ease of Care: Both Bearded Dragons and Blue Tongue Skinks are generally considered to be relatively easy to care for, but there are some aspects worth considering.

Bearded Dragons: Bearded Dragons are known for their docile nature and their willingness to interact with their owners. They enjoy being handled and can become quite tame with regular socialization. This sociability makes them a great choice for those looking for an interactive pet. However, they do require more day to day maintenance than blue tongue skinks. They have specific heating and lighting requirements that need to be carefully monitored to maintain their overall well-being.

Blue Tongue Skinks: Blue Tongue Skinks are also known for their calm demeanor, but they are generally less interactive than Bearded Dragons. They are more inclined to observe their surroundings rather than actively seeking interaction. This makes them a suitable choice for those who prefer a more laid-back pet. Additionally, Blue Tongue Skinks are generally hardy reptiles and are less prone to certain health issues that Bearded Dragons may experience, such as metabolic bone disease.

Dietary Considerations: The dietary requirements of Bearded Dragons and Blue Tongue Skinks differ, impacting the ease of care.

Bearded Dragons have a more complex diet, needing a variety of insects and vegetables to ensure proper nutrition. This diversity promotes natural foraging behaviors but requires effort and knowledge to maintain. In contrast, Blue Tongue Skinks can be primarily fed a balanced commercial dog food. While supplementing their diet with occasional insects, fruits, and vegetables is beneficial, the ability to rely on a high-quality commercial diet simplifies feeding and saves time.

For more detailed information on the care of these two species, please watch our care videos below:

Conclusion: Ultimately, the choice between a Bearded Dragon and a Blue Tongue Skink as a pet depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle. Bearded Dragons are popular, sociable, and interactive reptiles, making them an excellent choice for those seeking an engaging pet. Blue Tongue Skinks, on the other hand, are less commonly found but have overall less maintenance requirements. Both reptiles require specific care and attention, but with proper research and dedication, they can provide years of joy and fascination as captivating pets.