How Many Types of Bearded Dragons Are There

Australia is home to eight recognized species of bearded dragons. Here's a brief overview of each one:

Eastern Dragon (Pogona barbata): Also known as the Jew Lizard or Frilly Lizard, this species is found along the eastern and southern coasts of Australia. It has larger spikes, displays its beard more often, and is more aggressive than other species. The Eastern Dragon is the largest in the Pogona genus and can exceed 8 inches in snout to vent length. They can be found in various habitats, including wet forests and dry scrublands, and consume a wide variety of foods such as insects, fruit, greens, flowers, and smaller lizards.

Lawson's Bearded Dragon (Pogona henrylawsoni): This species is also known as Rankin's Dragon, Dumpy Dragon, Dwarf Bearded Dragon, or Black Soil Bearded Dragon. Named after the famous Australian poet and writer Henry Lawson, it is found in the north-eastern Australian state of Queensland and the Northern Territories. This is one of the smaller species and has a smaller beard. Often preyed upon by venomous snakes, this dragon has adopted a defense behavior of hiding in soil cracks.

Small-scaled Bearded Dragon (Pogona microlepidota): Also known as the Drydale River Dragon, this rare species lives in a small area in northwestern Australia called the Kimberly. They prefer open woodland with grasses and low-lying shrubs and have an adult size of about 5.5 inches in snout to vent length.

Western Bearded Dragon (Pogona minima): This species lives in the southwestern side of Australia in various habitats such as woodlands, heath, arid desert, and even coastal dunes. They are semi-arboreal and are often seen basking on rocks or fallen trees, and occasionally on roadways. Adults can exceed 6 inches in snout to vent length.

Dwarf Bearded Dragon (Pogona minor): This species lives all over western and central Australia and is one of the smaller Pogona species, with adults reaching about 6 inches in snout to vent length. They are found in a wide range of habitats, including forests and deserts, and are distinguished by their shorter limbs and tail. These dragons tend to hide during the hottest part of the day to avoid overheating.

Mitchell's Bearded Dragon (Pogona mitchelli): This species lives in northwestern Australia, including the Great Sandy Desert, and can be found in a variety of habitats. They are very small, averaging only 5.5 inches in snout to vent length.

Nullabor Bearded Dragon (Pogona nullabor): This is one of the smallest species, found in a small area in south-central Australia. Along the coast, they are known to live on steep cliffs and in caves. This species is distinguished by distinctive white bands on its back and three to seven rows of spines along the sides of its body. Adults reach about 6 inches in snout to vent length.

Inland or Central Bearded Dragon (Pogona vitticeps): This species is found in central areas of Australia, down to the south-central coast near Adelaide. They can adapt to various habitats, including desert, dry forests, and scrubland. Insects, flowers, and soft leaves make up their diet. The Inland Bearded Dragon is the most commonly found reptile in the pet trade, with various size and color morphs available from breeders. Adult size is usually around 6-7 inches, measuring from snout to vent.