Why should you find the best basking rocks for your bearded dragon?
In the wild, it is common for bearded dragons to bask on rocks, posts, broken trees, branches, logs, or any other surface that will give them opportunities to catch the sun’s warmth as well as UV light.
Therefore, choosing the right basking rocks for a bearded dragon should be considered carefully.
In this article, we will give you some of the best bearded dragon basking rocks and platforms, including climbing branches and logs and reptile hammocks.
Note that you may need to trim your pet’s nails due to the rough surface of some of these. Here are the top-rated basking rocks for a bearded dragon:
- Tfwadmx Natural Driftwood for Aquarium – Best Wood
- Magnaturals 37092 Rock Ledge – Best Rock
- PENN-PLAX Reptology Lizard Lounger Corner Triangle – Best Lounger
- Zoo Med Natural Cork Bark Round – Best Look
- Exo Terra Terrarium Decor Primate Skull – Unique
- Zoo Med Aquatic Natural Mopani Wood
- Zilla Pet Reptile Terrarium Shale Rock Den
- Exo Terra Reptile Den
Let us talk about each in more detail.
Related Posts:
- How to Treat MBD in Bearded Dragons
- Why Does Your Bearded Dragon Have a Fat Belly?
- Why Is My Bearded Dragon Lethargic?
- Can Baby Bearded Dragons Eat Pears?
- Bearded Dragon Male or Female: What Is a Better Pet?
- Why Is My Bearded Dragon’s Beard Black?
- How Long Can a Bearded Dragon Go Without Water?
- Reasons Why Your Beardie Turned White and Died
Basking Rocks for Bearded Dragon Guides
1. Desert Themes
The first time I saw this tank, I was completely surprised and excited by this beardie cage setup as it exploits main features to mimic the feeling of the natural habitat as well as combines and decorates smart accessories, which gives the dragon great comfort.
Also, a lot of different natural textures ranging from shrubbery and wood to dried excavator clay mounds allow the beardie to enjoy as they are in any grassland and semi-desert region.
You can be freely creative but ensure that you only incorporate plants and woods that are harmless for your beardie.
2. Jungle Themes
Unlike desert themes, jungle themes bring a fresh atmosphere to your dragon as you can find the easy-to-clean dark green reptile carpet, the lush foliage, and the rock staircase, which provides a comfortable environment closing to nature for your beardie.
These faux leaf vines are not sturdy enough for your dragon to climb but they are a fun jungle element to an otherwise pretty plain cage setup.
8 Best Platforms and Basking Rocks for Bearded Dragon (Updated List)
Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change.
8 Best Basking Rocks for Bearded Dragon
1. Tfwadmx Natural Driftwood for Aquarium – BEST WOOD
You will find the driftwood so flexible as it can be used for your dragons to climb, but it works as the bearded dragon basking platform as well.
You will be also excited by its appealing appearance so it would be an excellent decoration for your beardie terrarium.
Also, a baby dragon, juvenile, or a small beardie may love it as a sheltering or hiding place.
This driftwood is completely safe as it is well heat-treated. And it is designed in various sizes, which allows you to buy what will match your pet’s size.
2. Magnaturals 37092 Rock Ledge – BEST ROCK
It is undeniable that most reptile owners always try to prepare their pet’s habitat that replicates their natural surroundings as closely as possible.
And a high-quality basking rock for a bearded dragon is one of the ultimate must-haves for habitat.
Magnaturals’ rock ledge is a basking rock option that gives abundant space for adult beardie to bake like a cookie under their enclosure’s synthetic sunlight.
Especially, adult beardies can freely have a lot of options for their vertical basking position due to the magnetic and super sturdy ledge.
3. PENN-PLAX Reptology Lizard Lounger Corner Triangle – BEST LOUNGER
Maybe you guys will realize that this lounger by PENN-PLAX is more of a hammock rather than a basking rock, but don’t underestimate this product because it can serve various purposes at a lower price.
This seagrass lounger’s shape is a triangle with two sides at 10″ inches and one side at 12″ inches, which makes it large enough to fit an entire beardie’s body with the tail curving around or hanging off.
Also, you can easily attach suction cups to most tank walls.
Its natural, handwoven materials make this hammock very popular with beardie owners as it is perfectly safe for your beardie to use and allows your dragon to freely climb, hide, and so on.
Besides, unlike a rock, it won’t absorb heat and keep your pet warm.
4. Zoo Med Natural Cork Bark Round – BEST LOOK
In the wild, most beardies love digging and have an aptitude for tunneling.
However, when beardie is in captivity, and digging through their substrate can lead to worries: the potential risk to their health and damage to the enclosure.
Why don’t we think of creating the illusion of tunneling by providing them with a literal tunnel to explore?
Zoo Med’s Natural Cork Bark may be an option as it is 100% natural and contains ample space for large adult beardies.
However, you should be careful when purchasing. The form factor will not align 100% with the dimensions stated in the product.
Other Options:
5. Exo Terra Terrarium Decor Primate Skull – UNIQUE
Firstly, you will be impressed by this piece of artwork as Exo Terra’s Primate Skull Hideaway is wonderfully-spooky and quite affordable.
Secondly, the skull is technically designed to provide a secure hiding place for reptiles and will be a special and aesthetic addition to the habitat of your dragon without taking up too much space.
Other Options:
6. Zoo Med Aquatic Natural Mopani Wood
Zoo Med’s Aquatic Natural Mopani Wood is also a great option to support an environment that allows beardies to enjoy roaming and sunbathing, and feel at home in the wild.
ZooMed’s Reptile Mopani Wood is affordable and more than sufficient for providing your beardie the vantage points they so desire in their enclosure.
Other Options:
7. Zilla Pet Reptile Terrarium Shale Rock Den
If you would like to have a place working as a basking area and a safe place for your beardie to hide, you should consider this Zilla Reptile Shale Rock Den as its price is just medium.
This means if your dragon doesn’t want to rest in an exposed spot, he can absorb enough heat in the shelter.
Also, its non-porous exterior design is well-treated to be against bacteria growth and you will find it easy to clean.
Especially, its natural design makes it match well with the style of most other beardie furniture products.
8. Exo Terra Reptile Den
If you are finding one thing that can provide a cozy and large enough space to fit your beardie, the Exo Terra Reptile Cave will be the perfect size for an adult beardie.
This product is high in quality, lifelong, and the price is affordable.
Other Options:
How to Choose the Best Platforms and Basking Rocks for Bearded Dragon
In order to get the best platforms or basking rocks for bearded dragon, there are some key considerations that you should take into account.
Firstly, it is quite important to choose the basking rock that fits your pet well and allows it to comfortably and freely stretch.
You will not definitely want to take one that is too big or too small.
Secondly, you should wonder whether your dragon feels comfortable moving closer or further away from the heat bulb whenever they feel like it without touching the bulb or any hot fixture/surface.
Also, you should make sure that its material is safe, durable, and has the ability to withstand the lamp heat.
You will prefer the bearded dragon basking rock or platform that is easy to clean and affordable.
Moreover, possessing the best basking platforms for your pet should be recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions About Basking Rocks for Bearded Dragon
1. Can I Use Rocks for Bearded Dragons?
Of course, large, flat rocks can also work well as a basking area for your beardie.
You can find rocks at many pet shops, garden stores, or home improvement stores but you should be careful because large heavy rocks can easily crack tank bottoms.
2. Do Bearded Dragons Like Hammocks?
A beardie hammock would be a great addition to the enclosure for your beardie.
So, if you want a greater habitat, the hammock must be included.
3. How Hot Should Bearded Dragons’ Basking Spot Be?
The proper temperature for the basking area should be between 90 to 93 degrees for an adult beardie while it had better be kept at 80 to 90 degrees F for babies and juveniles.
4. Is Grout Safe for Bearded Dragons?
Grout will give a finer finish compared to cement while the grainier finish of cement is more attractive in the right design.
Therefore, just consider a grout suitable for large gaps when creating background walls for beardie houses.
5. Why Does a Bearded Dragon Climb the Glass?
Firstly, the reason for glass surfing may be that the beardie is stressed.
This can be caused by new decorations or rearrangement of the vivarium or feeling threatened by its reflection in the glass.
Also, a beardie may suffer from boredom or hunger.
6. What Kind of Wood Is Safe for Bearded Dragons?
Here, we would like to list some kinds of wood that are safe:
- Dogwood
- Oak
- Tulip Tree
- Maple
- Crepe Myrtle
7. Is Driftwood Safe for Bearded Dragons?
Sandblasted pieces of driftwood will be a great option as they are useful in the basking area for beardie to soak up some rays.
To avoid accidents, you should choose sturdy driftwood and anchor it to support your pet.
Read More:
- Can Beardies Eat Chard?
- Can Beardies Eat Peas?
- Do Beardies Eat Radish Greens?
- Do Beardies Eat Dill?
- Can Beardies Eat Honeydew Melon?
- Can Beardies Get High?
8. How to Make Logs Safe for Reptiles?
You should have branches or logs baked in an oven set at 250 to 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 30 to 60 minutes.
Also, you should use boiling water at about 212 degrees Fahrenheit to boil wood for six hours or more to ensure it is free of microorganisms.
9. How Do You Keep Driftwood From Rotting?
The first step is to mix 1 part bleach to 9 parts cold water in a shallow pan. Next, have the driftwood soaked for a half-hour, which allows the bleach to penetrate all the wood.
Finally, you just need to rinse it off with clear water and add an insecticide to the wood.
10. How Do You Preserve Driftwood Naturally?
You can take some steps to preserve driftwood naturally:
- Choose driftwood pieces following your favorite look.
- Accumulate as much wood as you can.
- Have the driftwood carved before soaking it in the bleach solution. Otherwise, it would be two-toned.
- Alter the water solution every day and remember to soak the driftwood inside.
- It takes the wood at least 1 week to dry.
11. How to Clean Bearded Dragons’ Wood?
The process begins with finding a barrel, bin, or tub that is large enough to contain your branch.
Next, you have the tub filled with the appropriate volume of water you are using.
Bleach should be added following the ratio of 1/3 to 1/2 cups of bleach for every gallon of water. Finally, the step of soaking will take 24 hours.
Conclusion
After having a look at what we have mentioned, you will have a profound understanding of how to choose basking rocks for bearded dragon properly.
There are many choices ranging from basking surface to a tunnel that you can consider.
Key points for selecting the best basking rock for bearded dragons:
A basking rock is a crucial component of your bearded dragon’s habitat, providing a safe and comfortable spot for them to regulate their body temperature. When selecting the best basking rock, consider the following factors to meet your bearded dragon’s heating needs:
Key Considerations for Choosing a Basking Rock:
- Material:
- Opt for a rock made of a natural, heat-retaining material, such as slate, granite, or sandstone. These materials mimic the natural basking surfaces bearded dragons encounter in their native environment.
- Size and Shape:
- The basking rock should be large enough for your bearded dragon to comfortably perch on. Ensure it offers a flat, stable surface for basking.
- Heat Retention:
- Choose a basking rock that can retain heat effectively, maintaining the desired temperature for basking without overheating or cooling too quickly.
- Easy to Clean:
- Pick a basking rock that is easy to clean and doesn’t absorb moisture or odors. Smooth, non-porous surfaces are ideal.
- Safety:
- Ensure the basking rock is free from sharp edges, loose parts, or chemicals that could harm your bearded dragon. Safety is paramount.
- Placement:
- Consider the layout of your bearded dragon’s enclosure to position the basking rock effectively under the heat source.
- Stability:
- The rock should be stable and secure, preventing any wobbling or tipping while your bearded dragon is on it.
- Thermoregulation:
- Provide a temperature gradient in the enclosure by placing the basking rock under a heat lamp, allowing your bearded dragon to move between warm and cooler areas.
Top Basking Rocks for Bearded Dragons:
- Zoo Med Repti Basking Spot Lamp: This heat bulb provides focused heat and can be used in conjunction with a basking rock.
- Exo Terra Reptile Basking Rock: Made from a natural-looking resin, this basking rock is designed to heat evenly and is easy to clean.
- Fluker’s Basking Spotlight Bulb: A spotlight bulb that provides focused heat for basking rocks while simulating the sun’s intensity.
- ReptiZoo Reptile Basking Rock: Crafted from natural stone, this basking rock retains heat well and offers a secure surface for your bearded dragon.
- Zilla Reptile Habitat Décor Basking Platform: This dual-purpose platform serves as a basking spot and a shelter, providing a multi-functional habitat feature.
- Zoo Med Repti Rock Reptile Water & Food Dish: Although primarily a water and food dish, this rock-like accessory can also function as a basking spot.
- Fluker’s 27002 Repta-Clamp Lamp: This clamp lamp is suitable for positioning heat bulbs above basking rocks, offering flexibility in temperature control.
- Woodsam LED UVA/UVB Basking Spot Lamp: A dual-function LED lamp that provides basking heat and UVA/UVB light for your bearded dragon’s well-being.
Installation Tips:
- Ensure the basking rock is securely placed under the heat lamp to reach the desired basking temperature.
- Monitor the temperature of the basking spot regularly to prevent overheating or insufficient heat.
- Keep the basking rock clean by removing waste and disinfecting it when necessary.
Selecting the right basking rock for your bearded dragon is crucial for their health and well-being. Prioritize materials, safety, size, and heat retention to create a comfortable and safe basking environment in their enclosure. Additionally, provide a suitable heat source to maintain the desired basking temperature. Regular monitoring and proper care of the basking rock will contribute to your bearded dragon’s overall happiness and vitality.
Further Reading:
- Best Insects for Bearded Dragons Chosen by Customers
- Bearded Dragon Thermometer Placement
- Can You Transport a Bearded Dragon?
- Best Calcium Powders for Beardies
- Best Beardie Leash and Harness
- 33+ Tips for Baby Bearded Dragon Diet
- Fancy Bearded Dragon VS Bearded Dragon: Which One Is the Best?
- Best Father’s Day Gifts for Pet Lovers
