Bearded Dragon Outdoor Cage: The Perfect Sunbathers Home

a bearded dragon outdoor cage with a garden with plants and a glass wall for fence

Ever wondered why your bearded dragon goes into “pancake mode” when sunlight hits their enclosure? Or why they seem more active on those sunny days when you bring them outside? Turns out, there’s fascinating science behind your beardie’s sun-seeking behavior – and creating a bearded dragon outdoor cage might be exactly what they need.

Can Your Bearded Dragon Really Live Outside?

Yes, bearded dragons like being outside in the sun and here’s where it gets interesting: research shows that bearded dragons thrive with natural sunlight exposure (Johnson & Adwick, 2018). But there’s a catch – you can’t just pop them in any outdoor enclosure and call it a day. A proper bearded dragon outdoor cage needs careful planning.

The good news? Even just a few hours of natural sunlight each week, combined with their indoor UVB setup, can make a world of difference in preventing issues like metabolic bone disease.

Pro tip: Monitor your beardie’s behavior during their first few outdoor sessions. If they’re basking happily and moving between sun and shade, you’re on the right track!

Ideas for the Perfect Outdoor Setup

Ever stood in front of different enclosure options feeling completely overwhelmed? I’ve been there! Let’s break down some options for an outdoor bearded dragon cage:

1. Aviary Conversions

  • Perfect for: Climbers and active beardies
  • Pros: Excellent ventilation, lots of vertical space
  • Cons: Needs extra weather-proofing

2. Rabbit Hutch Adaptations

  • Perfect for: Lazing on a rock
  • Pros: Ready-made, weather-resistant
  • Cons: Limited vertical space

Pro tip: Whatever style you choose, ensure the mesh is fine enough to keep both your beardie in and predators out!

a wooden cage with part solid green roof and part wire for bearded dragon cage outdoors.

3. Chook Pens (Chicken Coops)

  • Perfect for: Climbers and active beardies
  • Pros: Spacious, built-in shelter areas
  • Cons: May need additional predator-proofing

Here’s the thing about chicken coops – they’re actually brilliant for bearded dragon outdoor cages. Think about it: you get both sunny spots for basking and covered areas for shelter, all in one package. Just remember to secure those openings with appropriate mesh!

4. Dog Kennels with Runs

  • Perfect for: Climbers and active beardies
  • Pros: Built-in shelter, lots of ground space
  • Cons: Usually needs to be wrapped in smaller wire for reinforcement

Pro tip: When converting a dog kennel run into a bearded dragon outdoor cage, add plenty of climbing branches. Your beardie will love having different levels to explore!

5. Custom Built Pit Enclosures

  • Perfect for: Natural habitat enthusiasts
  • Pros: Most natural environment possible
  • Cons: Permanent installation, more complex setup

Want to know something cool? Cannon (2003) actually recommends pit enclosures for the most natural habitat experience. Think of it as creating your own little slice of Australian outback! Just make sure those walls are escape-proof – our beardies can be surprisingly good climbers when they want to be.

Pro tip: Whatever style you choose, ensure the mesh is fine enough to keep both your beardie in and predators out!

a close-up of a reptile outdoor cage tree with a large branches, rocks and sand
Large outdoor enclosure for reptiles providing shade, hides and basking spots. Combination of substrates and accessories provides more enrichment.

Size Matters: How Big Should Your Outdoor Cage Be?

Let’s talk numbers. According to Cannon (2003), your outdoor bearded dragon cage should be at minimum:

  • Width: 5 feet (1.5 meters)
  • Depth: 2 feet (0.6 meters)
  • Height: 3.3 feet (1 meter)

But here’s the thing – these are just minimums. When it comes to outdoor spaces, you probably have more room so go bigger and go higher, using that vertical space as well.

Think about it: in the wild, these little guys roam vast territories. You can check out how far they roam in the post on wild bearded dragons. The more space you can provide in your bearded dragon outdoor cage, the more natural behaviors they can express.

Making It Safe: The Security Checklist

Here’s your essential security checklist for any outdoor bearded dragon cage:

Predator-Proof MeshDig-Proof Base
Must be metal (plastic can tear)Solid concrete or wire mesh bottom
Small enough gaps to prevent escapeNo gaps at edges
Strong enough to resist pressureRegular inspection for wear
Table: Safety against predators.

Pro tip: Test your cage security by trying to push the mesh in various spots – if it gives at all, reinforce it!

Temperature and Placement: Getting the Sweet Spot Just Right

Can you keep your bearded dragon outside in summer? Yes, your bearded dragon can live outside in summer as long as it has protection from the weather, access to shade and sun and it doesn’t get too hot or too cold. Some Australians will keep their bearded dragons outside all year round, but it really will depend on the climate.

Basking Zone (Sunshine):Cool Zone (Shade Retreat):
Ideal temp: 104°F (40°C)Ideal temp: 77°F (25°C)
Alternative option: 95°F (35°C) (Johnson & Adwick, 2018)Minimum temp: 71°F (22°C)
Purpose: Digestion and vitamin processingPurpose: Temperature regulation and cooling off
Table: Ideal temperatures and purpose for bearded dragons.

The placement of your outdoor bearded dragon cage will make all the difference to achieving the temperatures. Look for spots that get morning sun but afternoon shade – think of it as creating a natural temperature gradient.

You might not be able to achieve these temperatures exactly. Even a cooler temperature with the sun out will be beneficial for short periods of time. As long as its not too cold.

If it’s too hot or cold, you may need to bring your bearded dragon indoors or add extra protection like heat lamps or temporary covers to keep your dragon safe and comfortable (Johnson & Adwick, 2018).

Pro tip: Your beardie will tell you if the temps are right – they’ll move between zones throughout the day like a natural thermostat!

Seasonal Considerations: When to Bring Them In

Let’s be real – weather can be unpredictable. Here’s when your beardie needs to come inside:

  • Temperatures below their cool zone temps (around 71°F or 22°C)
  • Heavy rain, strong winds, well before it snows
  • Extreme heat waves
  • During brumation season

Location, Location, Location!

Think of your outdoor bearded dragon cage placement like prime real estate. Here’s what you’re looking for:

Morning Schedule:Afternoon Requirements:
Early sun exposure (Think: morning coffee for your beardie!)Partial to full shade in the middle of the day
Natural warmup periodProtection from intense heat
Gradual temperature increaseCooler retreat options
Table: Location considerations for outdoor bearded dragon cage placement.

Pro tip: Got a mobile cage? Even better! You can follow the perfect sun/shade combo throughout the day.

The UVB Factor: Nature’s Health Boost

Did you know that natural sunlight is like a superfood for beardies? But as Cannon (2003) points out, there’s a catch – we need to manage it carefully:

Essential UVB Facts:Your Weekly Sun Goals:
Stronger in morning hoursSeveral hours of direct sunlight
Weakens with distanceConstant access to shade and shelter
Filtered by mesh and covers, the tighter the mesh or more solid the cover, the worse it is for UVBRegular movement opportunities
Table: Managing natural sunlight for bearded dragons.

Pro tip: Watch your beardie’s behavior – if they’re constantly hiding from the sun, your outdoor bearded dragon cage might need more shade options!

Creating the Perfect Outdoor Beardie Paradise: All About Accessories

There’s something wonderful and natural about watching your bearded dragon engage in natural behaviors! You know like climbing, basking and exploring. Here’s how to make your bearded dragon outdoor cage an enriching habitat they’ll absolutely love.

Here’s where science meets nature – Johnson & Adwick (2018) found that bearded dragons are living their best life when they can perform their natural behaviors. To do that, they just need the right space with the right accessories:

1. Climbing Elements:

  • Sturdy branches (secured against movement)
  • Rough-textured rocks (great for nail maintenance!)
  • Secure ramps at different angles
  • Vines (properly anchored)
  • Elevated platforms

Pro tip: Position climbing elements so your beardie can create their own temperature gradient by moving up or down.

2. Water and Food Stations: Strategic Placement is Key

We know that dehydration is a serious concern for bearded dragons (Wright, 2008), so let’s get this right. Of course your bearded dragon doesn’t need to eat outside, but it will always need water. Here are some tips:

Water Station Must-Haves:Food Station Requirements:
Shallow, stable dishesShaded location
Shaded location to prevent evaporationProtected from wind
Easy access from multiple areasEasy to clean surface
Regular cleaning scheduleSeparate from water area
Backup water sourcesAway from bathroom spots
If the water source can drip, they are more likely to drink it than still water
Table: Must haves for water and food stations.

Pro tip: Consider using heavy ceramic dishes that won’t tip over when your beardie gets excited about mealtime or the wind blows!

3. Substrate Solutions: The Ground Game

Your outdoor bearded dragon cage might already have the perfect floor, but if not, here’s some tips:

Natural Ground Options:Artificial Substrate Choices:Limited Sand Areas:
Existing grass (great for enrichment!)Large flat tiles (easy to clean)Small digging spots preferably in a container
Flat rocks
Table: Substrate solutions for bearded dragon outdoor cages.

4. Shelter and Protection: Creating Safe Spaces

Remember, your outdoor bearded dragon cage needs multiple retreat options:

Weather Protection:Comfort Features:
Rain shieldsDifferent height levels
Wind breaksVarious temperature zones
Sun shields for extreme heatMix of open and enclosed spaces
Multiple hiding spots
Table: Creating safe spaces and shelter in outdoor housing for bearded dragons.

Pro tip: Create at least three different hiding spots in your outdoor bearded dragon cage – beardies love options!

Are you already setup? Share your setup successes in the comments below!

Making It Comfy: The Perfect Setup

Remember how I mentioned bearded dragons are natural climbers? Here’s what your outdoor setup needs:

Climbing StructuresShelter Options
Sturdy branchesMultiple hiding spots
Flat rocksRain protection
Secure rampsWind breaks

Pro tip: Create different levels in your outdoor bearded dragon cage – beardies love to survey their kingdom from up high!

Designing Your Outdoor Bearded Dragon Paradise: Safety First!

Predator-Proofing: Our Top Priority

Here’s the thing about outdoor enclosures, we need to keep the bad guys out. Bearded dragons are vulnerable to predators like birds, cats, and other animals, so predator-proofing has to be our first priority (Johnson & Adwick, 2018).

1. Predator-proofing checklist:

  • Strong metal mesh
  • Small mesh openings
  • Locks on all doors
  • UV-transparent materials

Pro tip: Test your mesh strength regularly – if you can push it in with your finger, it’s not strong enough for determined predators!

2. Escape Artists: Keeping Our Beardies Safe

Think your beardie isn’t an escape artist? Probably just hasn’t had the right motivation yet if it hasn’t tried. These clever reptiles have two favorite escape routes:

  1. Over the top (They’re better climbers than you’d expect!)
  2. Under the fence (Those little claws can dig!)

For your bearded dragon outdoor cage base, you’ve got a few solid options:

  • Wire mesh base (Make sure it’s rust-resistant)
  • Concrete foundation (The Fort Knox approach)
  • Concrete slabs
  • Some flat rocks over the ground
  • Thick lawn

3. Material Matters: Making Smart Choices

Here are some great options for building that perfect outdoor bearded dragon cage:

3.1. Metal Frames

Metal FramesWood
Pros: Super durable, weather-resistantPros: Natural look, easy to work with
Cons: Can heat up like a frying panCons: Can rot and warp
Solution: Add plenty of climbing branches for shadeMust-do: Weatherproof it
Table: Material to make outdoor bearded dragon enclosures with.

In summary, a well-designed bearded dragon outdoor cage needs to be:

  • Predator-proof
  • Escape-proof
  • Weather-resistant
  • UV-transparent
  • Properly ventilated

Want more DIY ideas? Check out our comprehensive Bearded Dragon DIY Enclosures Guide.

a cage with a wire mesh around it for an outdoor bearded dragon cage
An outdoor bearded dragon cage built for warm sunny days. Provides shelter, sunshine, climbing opportunities, branches and rocks for basking and water.

The Final Word: Is It Worth It?

After years of experience and diving into research by experts like Cannon (2003) and Johnson & Adwick (2018), I can tell you this: a well-designed bearded dragon outdoor cage can transform your pet’s life. The natural sunlight, fresh air, and enrichment opportunities are incredibly valuable for their physical and mental wellbeing.

What’s your experience with outdoor enclosures? Have you noticed any positive changes in your beardie’s behavior when they get outdoor time? Share your stories in the comments below!

References

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