Frilled Dragon (Chlamydosaurus kingii) Care Sheet
A complete guide for the successful keeping of this active, dramatic, and semi-arboreal Australian lizard, emphasizing vertical space, speed, and high heat.
1. Overview & Commitment
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Common Name: Frilled Dragon, Frilled-neck Lizard
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Scientific Name: Chlamydosaurus kingii
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Natural Habitat: Hot, humid forests and semi-arid woodlands of Northern Australia and Southern New Guinea. They spend most of their time in the trees but will descend to the ground to run or feed. They are strictly diurnal.
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Size: Males are larger and more dramatic, reaching 60 – 90 cm (2 – 3 feet) in total length, including the tail and their massive neck frill.
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Lifespan: 10 – 15+ years in captivity.
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Temperament: Generally shy and reactive. They are known for their defensive display (frill extension and gaping) when threatened. They are fast-moving and best suited as display animals.
2. Vivarium/Enclosure
Frilled Dragons require a large enclosure that prioritizes height and provides sturdy climbing opportunities.
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Minimum Adult Enclosure: 90 x 60 x 120 cm 36 x 24 x 48 inches high is the minimum. The enclosure should be secure, as they are strong and can attempt to escape.
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Enclosure Type: Custom-built wooden or PVC enclosures are best for heat and humidity retention.
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Structure (Crucial): Provide multiple sturdy, thick branches placed vertically and diagonally to mimic tree limbs. They need a basking branch placed near the top heat source and ample foliage for cover and security.
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Hides: Provide several secure, elevated hides near the branches.
3. Substrate
The substrate should be moisture-tolerant to aid in humidity but kept dry directly under the basking spot.
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Recommended Substrate: A layer of moisture-retaining material like Cypress Mulch, Coconut Fiber (Coco Coir), or a mix of soil and sand.
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Management: Keep the substrate damp to aid ambient humidity, but the top layer should dry out daily.
4. Heating & Temperature
Frilled Dragons require a hot, concentrated basking spot typical of Australian species.
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Primary Heat Source: High-wattage Halogen Flood Lamps or Deep Heat Projectors (DHPs) connected to a dimming thermostat.
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Basking Spot Temp (Top Perch): The surface temperature directly under the lamp must be 35°C – 43°C (95°F – 110°F). This high heat is crucial for digestion.
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Ambient Warm Area: 29°C – 32°C (85°F – 90°F).
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Cool End: Should not drop below 24°C (75°F).
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Night Time Temperatures: Should drop significantly to 21°C – 24°C (70°F – 75°F). All light sources should be off.
5. Lighting & UV
As a diurnal, sun-loving species, intense UV light is non-negotiable.
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UVB Light (Mandatory): A high-output 10% or 12% T5 linear fluorescent tube is absolutely essential. It must span at least two-thirds of the enclosure and be positioned near the basking area.
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Visible Light: High-quality full-spectrum lighting (LEDs) is required to ensure bright, realistic daylight.
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Photoperiod: Maintain a consistent 12-14 hour day/night cycle.
6. Humidity & Hydration
Frilled Dragons require high, stable humidity to prevent respiratory and shedding issues.
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Ambient Humidity: Must be maintained between 60% and 80%.
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Misting/Fogging: Manual or automated misting 1–2 times per day is necessary. The best time is in the morning to mimic dew.
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Water Dish: A sturdy water bowl should be available, though they often prefer drinking water droplets from leaves and branches.
7. Diet & Feeding
Frilled Dragons are primarily carnivores/insectivores with a huge appetite.
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Staple Diet (Juveniles): Daily feedings of appropriately sized, gut-loaded insects such as Crickets, Dubia Roaches, Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL), and Locusts.
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Staple Diet (Adults): Feed 3–4 times per week. The diet should be mostly insects, supplemented with occasional, small pinkie mice or quail chicks (as a treat).
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Plant Matter: Offer small amounts of dark, leafy greens (collards, dandelion) dusted with supplements. This is not a staple but provides hydration and nutrition.
Supplementation:
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Calcium Powder (Pure, No D3): Dust insects 5 times per week.
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Calcium with D3 and Multivitamin: Dust insects on a rotating schedule twice per month.
8. Handling & Maintenance
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Handling: Handling should be minimal and slow to avoid startling them. When stressed, they will extend their frill and gape. Consistent, gentle handling can tame them, but they remain fast and jumpy.
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Maintenance: Daily spot cleaning is required. Ensure the basking spot is clean and the humidity levels are maintained