Amphibolurus barbatus syn. Pogona barbata
Bearded dragon
Also known as:
Coastal bearded dragon, eastern bearded dragon
Family: Agamidae
Origin: Australia
Regional Pest Management Plan (RPMP) status
- Whole region — Sustained control
- Aotea — Exclusion
- Hauraki Gulf Controlled Area Notice pest
General description
Grey-brown reptile 55-58 cm long, with throat covered with distinct spiny scales which can be raised to form a black 'beard'.
What you need to know
To help protect our environment:
- You must not release any bearded dragon from containment within the Auckland region.
- You must not move any bearded dragon to Aotea/Great Barrier Island group. You must not breed, distribute or release any bearded dragon on Aotea/Great Barrier Island group.
- From 1 September 2022, you will not be allowed to breed, distribute or sell any bearded dragon within the Auckland region.
Habitats
Scrub, open forest, disturbed habitats.
Impact on environment
Likely to prey on native invertebrates, competes with native lizards and birds. May spread disease to native reptiles. May bite people.
Control
Management
If you have pet bearded dragons, make sure they’re securely contained to avoid accidental escapes. If you are no longer able to look after your pet bearded dragon, find someone who is prepared to give it a lifetime home, or contact a relevant pet shop or animal rescue organisation to get it rehomed. Never release a bearded dragon into the wild – your pet may be unable to find the food and shelter it needs, and it also puts our native species at risk.
If you see a bearded dragon in the wild, please report it to Auckland Council at pestfree@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
