Bearded dragons are cherished pets, known for their docile nature and captivating looks. Of all the colors, the Black Bearded Dragon stands out for its unique coloration and intriguing behavior.
These black beauties can transform their usual earthy tones into a deep, inky black under specific conditions.
Let’s take a closer look at the enigmatic world of Black Bearded Dragons and learn all about their care, behavior, and distinct traits.
Do Black Bearded Dragons Exist?
Bearded dragons do not naturally come in a solid black color. However, through selective breeding, certain color morphs and variants can have darker pigmentation or even appear close to black under certain lighting or environmental conditions.
These dragons aren’t truly “breeds” but are the result of genetic variations that enhance darker shades in their scales.
What is a Black Bearded Dragon?
Bearded dragons are native to the arid regions of Australia and can come in various colors, including tan, brown, gold, red, and, in rare cases, black.
The term “Black Bearded Dragon” often refers to the change in color that bearded dragons exhibit when stressed, threatened, or regulating their body temperature, rather than a separate breed or type of bearded dragon.
Dark and Black Morphs of Bearded Dragons
While pure black bearded dragons don’t naturally exist, some bearded dragon morphs display darker colors that can make them appear black or very dark brown under specific conditions. These morphs include:
1. Black Hypo Bearded Dragons
Hypo bearded dragons (short for “hypomelanistic”) are known for having reduced melanin, resulting in a lighter overall color.
However, through selective breeding, some Hypo dragons are bred for darker pigmentation, leading to a dark brown or near-black appearance.
These dragons may not be solid black, but they can have a deep, dark hue that stands out in their skin and scales.
Characteristics:
- Darker scales with reduced markings.
- Black or dark brown shades dominate the coloration.
- May have lighter patches around the belly or underbelly.
2. Melanistic Bearded Dragons
Melanism is a genetic mutation that results in an increased amount of dark pigment, leading to an overall darker appearance.
Melanistic bearded dragons have more melanin, giving them a dark brown or almost black appearance, although they are still not entirely solid black.
Characteristics:
- Higher levels of dark pigmentation.
- Can appear darker under certain lighting conditions.
- Rare and often sought-after for their unique coloration.
3. Leatherback Morph Bearded Dragons
Leatherback morphs are known for having smoother, reduced-scaled skin, which can enhance the appearance of their color.
Darker leatherback morphs can appear near black or dark brown, particularly if they are bred with darker morphs like the Hypo or Melanistic variants.
Characteristics:
- Smooth, reduced-scale texture enhances their dark colors.
- Can exhibit a range of dark shades, from deep gray to blackish-brown.
4. Translucent Bearded Dragons
Translucent bearded dragons have a unique trait where their skin is partially see-through, giving them a “ghostly” appearance.
While many of these dragons are lighter in color, some breeders have selectively bred darker translucent dragons that can appear black or dark under certain lighting.
Characteristics:
- Transparent skin with visible organs, giving them an unusual appearance.
- May have darker pigmentation around the head and body.
- The dark, translucent skin can give the impression of a black hue.
5. Dunner Bearded Dragons
The Dunner morph is known for its unusual scale patterns and more varied colors. Some Dunner dragons have darker colors, including blacks and deep browns, especially when cross-bred with other dark morphs like melanistic or Hypo variants.
Characteristics:
- Unique scale patterns that can enhance the appearance of darker shades.
- Dark browns and blacks mixed with other tones like orange or yellow.
- Scales may grow in irregular patterns, giving them a unique texture.
Can Bearded Dragons Change Color?
While bearded dragons do not have the same color-changing abilities as chameleons, they can sometimes appear darker depending on their environment, mood, and temperature.
For instance, when a bearded dragon is basking or feeling cold, it may darken to absorb more heat. Similarly, stress or territorial behavior can also cause a dragon to darken temporarily.
Why Do Bearded Dragons Turn Black?
Here are why these dragons turn black:
Temperature Regulation
The darkening of the skin helps the bearded dragon to absorb more heat and regulate its body temperature. When they’re trying to warm up, especially in the morning, you might see them turning darker.
Stress or Illness
A black beard can also be a sign of stress or illness. It’s crucial to observe your pet for any other signs of discomfort or changes in behavior. If the black color persists, it might be worth consulting a vet.
Communication
A black beard can also be a form of communication, signaling aggression or dominance, especially during the breeding season.
Caring for Your Black Bearded Dragon
Even though Black Bearded Dragons are not a separate breed, their care remains as essential as with any other bearded dragon. Let’s touch on some of the crucial aspects:
Proper Habitat
Creating a comfortable and suitable environment is paramount for your bearded dragon’s health. Make sure their enclosure mimics their natural habitat, with plenty of space, basking spots, and areas to hide.
Regular Check-ups
Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to keep your pet healthy and quickly address any health concerns that may arise.
Housing and Enclosure
A large, well-ventilated terrarium with a basking area is essential for bearded dragons. The size of the enclosure should be at least 40 gallons for an adult dragon, with proper lighting and temperature control.
- Temperature: The basking spot should be kept at around 95-110°F, while the cooler side should be around 80-85°F.
- Lighting: UVB lighting is critical to provide the necessary Vitamin D3 for calcium absorption and overall health.
Diet
Bearded dragons are omnivores, requiring a mix of vegetables, fruits, and live insects like crickets or mealworms. A healthy diet ensures your bearded dragon’s color stays vibrant and its overall health remains optimal.
- Greens and Vegetables: Offer leafy greens such as collard greens, mustard greens, and dandelion greens.
- Insects: Crickets, roaches, and mealworms are popular live food choices. Always dust insects with calcium and vitamin supplements to support your dragon’s health.
Grooming and Handling
Regular handling helps bearded dragons stay docile and socialized. However, be gentle with your dragon and provide enough time for them to get used to being held.
Keep their enclosure clean to prevent scale rot and other infections, especially for long periods in the basking area.
Conclusion
Black Bearded Dragons are fascinating creatures with unique behaviors and features. Their tendency to darken their skin, while normal in many cases, should always be observed carefully to ensure the health and wellbeing of these beloved pets.
By understanding their needs and behaviors, you can create a comfortable environment that enables your Black Bearded Dragon to thrive.
FAQs
1. Do black bearded dragons exist?
True black bearded dragons do not exist in nature, but certain morphs like Hypo and Melanistic can have darker pigmentation that makes them appear nearly black.
2. Can bearded dragons change color?
Yes, bearded dragons can change their color slightly depending on environmental factors, stress, or temperature. However, they do not change color as drastically as chameleons.
3. Are black bearded dragons harder to care for?
No, black or dark-colored bearded dragons require the same care as other bearded dragon morphs. They need proper lighting, a balanced diet, and a clean habitat to thrive.
4. How much do black bearded dragon morphs cost?
Darker morphs like Hypo, Melanistic, or Leatherback dragons can cost anywhere from $100 to $500, depending on their genetics and the breeder. Rare or high-quality morphs may command higher prices.
5. Do bearded dragons darken as they age?
Some bearded dragons may darken slightly as they age, especially during basking or in response to environmental changes. However, the overall coloration is generally set by genetics and won’t change drastically with age.
