When it comes to the world of lizards, few creatures captivate us as much as the horned lizard and the bearded dragon. Both species have evolved over millions of years to become some of the most iconic lizards in the world and they have some remarkable similarities and differences that make them both fascinating to study. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the two species, comparing their physical appearance, habitat, diet, and other traits to help you decide which might be the best choice for you. So, let’s get started and find out who the winner is in the battle of the horned lizard vs. the bearded dragon!
| Horned Lizard | Bearded Dragon |
|---|---|
| Smaller in size and can grow up to 6 inches in length | Can grow up to 24 inches in length |
| Prefers dry and hot climates | Prefers dry and arid climates |
| Feeds on insects | Feeds on insects and some vegetation |
| Has horns on its head | Has a beard on its throat |
Horned Lizard Vs Bearded Dragon: Comparison Chart
| Characteristic | Horned Lizard | Bearded Dragon |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 3-6 inches | 18-24 inches |
| Weight | 2-3 ounces | 7-14 ounces |
| Color | Brown/Grey/Tan | Green/Tan/Red |
| Habitat | Grasslands/Deserts | Grasslands/Deserts |
| Diet | Insects/Spiders | Insects/Vegetables |
| Life Span | 3-5 years | 8-10 years |
| Temperament | Shy/Solitary | Social/Docile |
Horned Lizard Vs Bearded Dragon
Horned Lizards (Phrynosoma solare) and Bearded Dragons (Pogona vitticeps) are two popular lizards in the pet trade. Both animals have unique physical characteristics and behaviors that make them interesting pets, but they also have some similarities. In this article, we will compare the two species and discuss their differences and similarities.
Horned Lizards
Horned Lizards are found in the arid southwest of the United States and Mexico. They range in size from 4-8 inches in length, and they have flat, triangle-shaped heads with several large, sharp horns. Their bodies are covered in spiny scales, and they have short, stocky legs. Horned Lizards are mostly terrestrial, but they can also climb on rocks and plants. They feed mainly on insects, and they will puff up their body when threatened.
Horned Lizards make great pets for experienced reptile keepers. They require a lot of attention and care, and they need a habitat that has a temperature of 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit, with a warm basking area. They should also be provided with hiding places, such as rocks and branches, and they need a large water dish to soak in. The diet should consist of live insects, such as crickets and mealworms.
Horned Lizards are solitary animals and should not be housed with other lizards. They can be territorial and may become aggressive if their enclosure is too small. They also require regular handling to become tame, so they are not recommended for first-time lizard keepers.
Bearded Dragons
Bearded Dragons are native to Australia and are one of the most popular lizards in the pet trade. They range in size from 12-24 inches in length, and they have triangular heads and long, spiny tails. Their bodies are covered in large scales, and they have long, strong legs that allow them to move quickly. Bearded Dragons are omnivorous, and their diet should consist of both insects and vegetables.
Bearded Dragons make great pets for experienced and beginner reptile keepers alike. They require a habitat that has a temperature of 80-95 degrees Fahrenheit, with a warm basking area. They should also be provided with hiding places, such as rocks and branches, and they need a large water dish to soak in. The diet should consist of both live insects, such as crickets and mealworms, and vegetables, such as kale and dandelion greens.
Bearded Dragons are social animals and can be housed with other lizards. They are generally easy to tame, so they are recommended for first-time lizard keepers. However, they require regular handling to stay tame, and they should not be handled too much, as this can stress them out.
Physical Appearance
Horned Lizards and Bearded Dragons have many similarities in their physical appearance. Both species have triangular heads, spiny bodies, and long, stocky legs. The main difference between the two species is their size; Horned Lizards are much smaller than Bearded Dragons.
Horned Lizards have flat, triangle-shaped heads with several large, sharp horns. Their bodies are covered in spiny scales, and they have short, stocky legs. Bearded Dragons have triangular heads and long, spiny tails. Their bodies are covered in large scales, and they have long, strong legs.
The two species also have some differences in their coloration. Horned Lizards are usually shades of brown with yellow or orange markings, while Bearded Dragons come in a variety of colors, including red, orange, yellow, and black.
Behavior
Horned Lizards and Bearded Dragons also have some differences in their behavior. Horned Lizards are mostly terrestrial, but they can also climb on rocks and plants. They feed mainly on insects, and they will puff up their body when threatened. Bearded Dragons are omnivorous, and their diet should consist of both insects and vegetables. They are also more social than Horned Lizards and can be housed with other lizards.
Horned Lizards are solitary animals and should not be housed with other lizards. They can be territorial and may become aggressive if their enclosure is too small. Bearded Dragons, on the other hand, are social animals and can be housed with other lizards. They are also generally easy to tame, so they are recommended for first-time lizard keepers.
Horned Lizards and Bearded Dragons also differ in their handling requirements. Horned Lizards require regular handling to become tame, so they are not recommended for first-time lizard keepers. Bearded Dragons are generally easy to tame, so they are recommended for first-time lizard keepers. However, they require regular handling to stay tame, and they should not be handled too much, as this can stress them out.
Care Requirements
Horned Lizards and Bearded Dragons have some similarities in their care requirements. Both species require a habitat that has a temperature of 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit, with a warm basking area. They should also be provided with hiding places, such as rocks and branches, and they need a large water dish to soak in.
Horned Lizards should be fed a diet of live insects, such as crickets and mealworms. Bearded Dragons should be fed a diet of both live insects, such as crickets and mealworms, and vegetables, such as kale and dandelion greens. Both species should also be provided with a regular supply of fresh water.
Horned Lizards and Bearded Dragons both require regular handling to stay tame. Horned Lizards should be handled regularly, but not too much, as this can stress them out. Bearded Dragons should also be handled regularly, but not too much, as this can also stress them out.
Price
Horned Lizards and Bearded Dragons also differ in price. Horned Lizards are usually cheaper than Bearded Dragons, as they are smaller and require less care. Bearded Dragons are usually more expensive than Horned Lizards, as they are larger and require more care.
Horned Lizards can typically be found for around $20-$50, while Bearded Dragons can typically be found for around $50-$100. Prices can vary depending on the size and age of the lizard, and the breeder or pet store.
Horned Lizards and Bearded Dragons both make great pets, but they have some differences in price, physical appearance, and behavior. Horned Lizards are smaller and require less care, while Bearded Dragons are larger and require more care. Both species require regular handling to stay tame, and they should be provided with a habitat that has a temperature of 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit, with a warm basking area.
Horned Lizard Vs Bearded Dragon Pros & Cons
- Horned Lizard Pros:
- Larger size than the bearded dragon
- Can live in a cooler environment than the bearded dragon
- Requires less maintenance than the bearded dragon
- Can live a longer lifespan than the bearded dragon
- Horned Lizard Cons:
- More aggressive in temperament than the bearded dragon
- Cannot handle frequent handling like the bearded dragon
- Can be more expensive than the bearded dragon
- Not recommended for novice reptile owners
- Bearded Dragon Pros:
- Friendly in temperament than the horned lizard
- Can handle frequent handling
- More affordable than the horned lizard
- Recommended for novice reptile owners
- Bearded Dragon Cons:
- Smaller size than the horned lizard
- Cannot live in a cooler environment than the horned lizard
- Requires more maintenance than the horned lizard
- Shorter lifespan than the horned lizard
Which is better – Horned Lizard Vs Bearded Dragon?
The debate of whether the Horned Lizard or the Bearded Dragon is the better pet has been ongoing for quite some time. Both lizards have unique characteristics and qualities that make them desirable pets. It is important to consider the needs of the individual pet owner and the requirements of the pet in order to decide which is the better pet.
The Horned Lizard is a desert-dwelling reptile that is known for its defensive capabilities. It has a defensive mechanism that allows it to squirt a foul-smelling liquid at potential predators. This lizard is also known for its hardiness and is an ideal pet for beginner reptile owners. The Bearded Dragon is a semi-arboreal lizard that is known for its docile nature and intelligence. It is a great pet for those who are looking for an engaging and interactive companion.
The final decision may depend on the individual preferences and needs of the pet owner. However, there are some qualities of each lizard that may make them a better choice for certain people. Below are three reasons why the Bearded Dragon may be the better choice.
- The Bearded Dragon is intelligent and can be trained more easily than the Horned Lizard
- The Bearded Dragon is more social and interactive than the Horned Lizard
- The Bearded Dragon is easier to care for than the Horned Lizard
Overall, the Bearded Dragon is a better choice for those looking for an intelligent, social, and easy-to-care-for pet. The Horned Lizard may be better suited for those who are looking for a hardy, defensive pet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have questions about Horned Lizards and Bearded Dragons? This article will answer some of the more common questions about these two reptiles.
What is the difference between Horned Lizards and Bearded Dragons?
Horned lizards and bearded dragons are both reptiles, but they differ in a few key ways. Horned lizards, also known as horned toads or horny toads, are small, spiny lizards with a triangular-shaped head, a wide body, and short legs. They typically measure up to four inches in length and can be found in dry regions of North America. Bearded dragons, on the other hand, can grow up to two feet in length and are native to Australia. They are much larger than horned lizards and have a more slender body shape. They also have a fringe of spines along their throats that resemble a beard, which is how they got their name.
Bearded dragons are also more social creatures than horned lizards and are often kept as pets. Horned lizards, on the other hand, are typically solitary animals that are rarely seen in the wild. They also have more potent venom, which they use to defend themselves from predators.
What do Horned Lizards and Bearded Dragons eat?
Horned lizards are mostly insectivores, meaning they feed mainly on insects. They will also occasionally eat small mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Bearded dragons, on the other hand, are omnivores and will eat both plant and animal matter. They will typically feed on a variety of insects and plants, as well as small vertebrates such as mice and lizards.
Both species will also eat fruits and vegetables, although they should not be given too much as they may not be able to digest them properly. It is important to feed them a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs.
Where do Horned Lizards and Bearded Dragons live?
Horned lizards are found in dry, open areas of the western United States, Mexico, and parts of Canada. They prefer open, dry areas such as deserts, grasslands, and scrublands. Bearded dragons, on the other hand, are found in the arid regions of Australia. They can be found in areas such as deserts, woodlands, and grasslands.
Both species are also kept as pets and can be found in captivity in many parts of the world.
How long do Horned Lizards and Bearded Dragons live?
Horned lizards typically live up to five years in the wild, but they can live up to 10 years in captivity. Bearded dragons, on the other hand, can live up to 10 years in the wild and up to 15 years in captivity.
Both species are relatively long-lived reptiles, but they require proper care and a good diet in order to reach their full life span.
Are Horned Lizards and Bearded Dragons dangerous?
Horned lizards are not dangerous to humans, but they can be defensive if they are threatened. They have a venomous bite that can be painful, but it is not deadly. Bearded dragons, on the other hand, are gentle creatures and are not dangerous to humans.
If you are considering keeping either species as a pet, it is important to do your research and make sure you are providing them with the proper care. They both require space, a proper diet, and a warm, dry environment in order to thrive.
Lizard Fends Off Predators To Protect Her Eggs | Life | BBC Earth
In conclusion, the Horned Lizard and Bearded Dragon have many similarities and differences when it comes to their behavior, diet, and habitat. They both make excellent pets, but their respective needs must be taken into consideration. The Horned Lizard is a somewhat more challenging pet that requires a greater level of commitment and care. The Bearded Dragon is much easier to care for and can make an ideal pet for a wide range of people. Ultimately, the choice of which one is best for you depends on your own unique needs and preferences.
