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The Cutting Edge By Mariette
TEAM TALK
NOT-SO-TOOTHLESS!
Many of you might recall fond memories of“ Toothless”, the little black dragon with the beautiful, large green eyes in“ How to train your dragon”. Some of you might even have wished to have your own dragon! In this case, dreams do come true!
A real-life bearded dragon named“ Toothless” … although he can not fly like his namesake in the movie( we can still dream can’ t we?!) joined my family on 20 July 2016, as a rescue animal. He was approximately 8 months of age. He quickly settled in to his new environment( bearded dragons usually bond with one owner from a young age). With a mouth full of teeth( they are definitely not“ Toothless”) these animals are omnivorous. Front teeth are used to bite and tear their food, with the side teeth being used for eating. Although“ Toothless” is supposed to eat a varied diet of fruits, vegetables and insects, it became quite clear that he had his definite favourites, which included dubia roaches, crickets, rocket and watercress. He is one spoilt little boy and will only eat when hand-fed.
Baby bearded dragon
These dragons( Pogona vitticeps) with their large triangular heads and flat bodies with pointed ridges along the sides originate from Australia and are referred to as“ bearded”, due to them having a flap of skin under their chin, which will be extended when disturbed. With an average life span of approximately 10 years, captive bred dragons usually tolerate and thrive on human interaction in a loving and caring environment.
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