Description of the 8 Types of Bearded Dragon
There are 8 species of bearded dragons, but their discovery has been a source of confusion and controversy, resulting in multiple common names and even variations to their scientific names. Some people recognize only 6 species and 2 subspecies. Despite this confusion, the important facts about each species are worth exploring.
Bearded dragons were named for the beard they display when threatened. The eastern beardie (pogona barbata) was the first species discovered, found along the east coast of Australia in open forest and dry scrublands. These dragons can grow to just under two feet in length and are prone to harm from human contact as they love to bask on roads for warmth.
The inland bearded dragon (pogona vitticeps) is the most popular and readily available in the pet trade. They are also known as the central bearded dragon because they live in the center of Australia. These dragons are the largest of all bearded dragons, growing up to two feet in length, and they live in desert areas, dry forests, and scrublands.
The nullabor dragon (pogona nullabor) is only found in Australia and is not available overseas. They are a fairly small dragon, reaching only 8-10 inches in length, and live on the nullabor plain of southwest Australia. These beardies are unique because of the white bands that extend along their back.
The Drysdale River Bearded Dragon (pogona microlepidota) is named after the small habitat in which it is found, the Drysdale River National Park. These lizards are only found in this park and nowhere else in the world. They are spectacular and worth seeing if you make a trip down under.