Bearded dragons are reptiles that belong to the dragon family. They are native to Australia and New Guinea. Bearded dragons are known for their beautiful colors and patterns.
They are also known for being very friendly and loving creatures. However, there are some things that you should know before buying a bearded dragon.
In this article, I am going to talk about whether or not water fountains are safe for bearded dragons and also recommend the best waterfalls or fountains for your bearded dragon.
Are Water Fountains Good for Bearded Dragons?
Bearded dragons still require a source of fresh, clean water. Running water may be more appealing to your beardie than stagnant water in a dish. If you are concerned about their poor water intake, a fountain or waterfall may encourage them to drink more and is completely safe.
What is a Water Fountain For A Bearded Dragon?
A water fountain is basically an aquarium with a pump inside of it. The purpose of having a water fountain is so that the reptile can drink from it without needing to be held by its owner. This makes life easier for both parties because they don’t need to hold the lizard all day long. It also allows the owners to do other tasks while keeping an eye on the lizard at the same time.
The most important thing when choosing a water fountain for a bearded dragon is finding one that has enough space for the animal to move around freely. You want to make sure that the tank does not get too small as this could cause stress and even death if the animal gets stuck somewhere.
Also, look into how easy it will be to clean out the tank after use. Some tanks come pre-cleaned but others require cleaning every few days. If you have pets in your home, then you probably already know what kind of pet food you feed them. Make sure that whatever type of food you choose, matches up well with the diet of your bearded dragon.
5 Best Water Fountains for Bearded Dragon to Buy
Listed below are the top 3 best fountains or waterfalls for your bearded dragon:
1. Tetra Decorative ReptoFilter, Terrarium Filtration
The best water fountains you can get for your bearded dragon so far. The Tetra ReptoFilter serves not only as a decorative waterfall but also has a filter and basking platform for your beardie pet.
The Tetra ReptoFilter water fountain is exclusively meant for shallow-water aquatic settings and should be used with any frog, newt, or turtle enclosure. Two medium-sized bio bag filters are included, which keep the water pure and odor-free.
The natural and realistic appearance of the ReptoFilter makes it an excellent focal point that owners can proudly display in any 10-55 gallon terrarium.
In addition to wide input ports that avoid clogging, the ReptoFilter comes with an 8-foot power line and a 90-gallons-per-hour filter. This item must be positioned in a corner.
The min and max fill lines are prominently visible on the rear of the device and measure roughly 4.25′′ and 6.25′′, respectively.
I personally suggest this waterfall to anyone who needs a decent filter to keep the water clean and wants to make their terrarium appear natural.
2. Zoo Med Repti Rapids LED Skull Waterfall Natural Rock Reptiles Terrariums Medium
Do you enjoy rolling up your sleeves and doing your own thing? If so, this next terrarium waterfall could be just what you’re looking for!
This Zoo Med Terrarium Waterfall kit includes everything you need to build your own waterfall for your bearded dragon, so you can get it just as you want it.
Each waterfall kit contains a water pump, hydro balls, terrarium mesh, plastic tubing, and a plastic elbow, allowing you to eventually build the water feature of your dreams!
However, if you have a big terrarium, you may want more hydro balls than what is supplied with the package. If this is the case, there are hydro balls that can be purchased separately, so prepare ahead of time and suit your demands.
I recommend this low-cost waterfall kit to anybody looking to build a personalized waterfall within their beardie’s terrarium.
3. Exo Terra Pebble Waterfalls, Medium
Exo Terra Pebble Waterfalls are one-of-a-kind but gentle waterfall element that comes in three sizes: small (6 12”), medium (8′′), and big (10 12”).
In addition to numerous models with increasing heights, the base (which also serves as a reservoir) increases proportionally as you go into larger sizes.
This terrarium waterfall, made of high-density polyresin, is incredibly robust and hefty, almost like taking up a rock. As a result, your reptiles will be unable to quickly topple this construction.
And, with a totally solid 360-degree construction, you won’t have to worry about your reptile going inside and injuring or drowning. Nonetheless, there is a unique notch (read: hole) on the rear that is just large enough to pass the power wire through.
Exo Terra Pebble Waterfalls don’t have many species limits in terms of what terrarium setting this waterfall would fit best because it may be utilized for a broad selection of topical and semi-tropical reptiles.
And, regardless of size, each model easily disassembles into several parts for cleaning. The configuration is simple and intuitive, and you should be able to tell what belongs where just by looking at it.
While this pebble waterfall looks beautiful in any area, its adaptable structure allows you to position it wherever you choose.
If you want to add flowing water to your bearded dragon’s terrarium without the trouble of making it yourself, I strongly recommend this device.
This is what a user of this water fountain said:
“My bearded dragon previously only drank water when hand fed or in the bath, but now she drinks it all the time and enjoys it (extra benefit, it sounds great and calming in my reptile room). I strongly suggest this product to all of my reptile-owning friends.”
4. Ninuo Reptile Water Dispenser
This food-grade resin waterfall dispenser is constructed of a nonporous, easy-to-clean material. It has a 2.5-watt adjustable water pump and a carbon filter.
Strong suction cups on the sides and bottom make it simple to attach to your bearded dragon’s habitat.
Buyers say that the waterfall sounds of this water dispenser are gentle and unobtrusive. The gently trickling water may persuade your bearded dragon to drink even if it does not come with a soaking dish.
Make sure it’s on the chilly side, as with any flowing water in a reptile cage. This dispenser carries a week’s worth of water, so you won’t have to replenish it as frequently.
Pros:
- Naturalistic and peaceful running water in a waterfall feature
- The water has been carbon-filtered and dechlorinated.
- It can hold enough water for a week.
- The pump uses a low-wattage motor.
Cons:
- There is no soaking basin, so you’ll have to supplement with baths or have a separate water bowl.
- It may be tough to disassemble for cleaning.
5. Sunnydaze Aged Tree Trunk Tabletop Water Fountain
While not originally intended for reptile usage, this realistic waterfall has piqued the interest of both pet owners and bearded dragons.
It will not only give a lovely running water element to your pet’s enclosure, but it will also provide a climbing area and a basking location, increasing their mental stimulation.
The lower basin is just 2′′ (5 cm) deep, making it insufficient for soaking, therefore you may need to use a second dish. This waterfall does have LED lights, which must be turned off when it is time for your bearded dragon to sleep at night.
This water fountain is easy to install. Only electrical wiring is required; no plumbing is required. Water and pump levels may need to be adjusted for proper water distribution.
However, customers have experienced significant leaking and splashing from several of these fountains. Others have expressed concern about the motor’s loudness. This is also a large object, weighing seven pounds, and it may not fit in your enclosure.
However, if it is, keep it cold to avoid interfering with the humidity of the surroundings.
Pros:
- Naturalistic style
- It provides a climbing area as well as additional mental stimulation.
- LED lights that are visually appealing
Cons:
- There have been reports of leakage and splashing.
- Water and pump levels may need to be adjusted.
- There have been reports of a loud motor.
In conclusion, including a water fountain inside your beardies tank is a great way to increase its visual appearance and provide a more natural environment for your bearded dragon.
Do you have a favorite waterfall for bearded dragons that didn’t make the list? If so, leave it in the comment section below.
We’d love to hear your suggestions!