Rankin'S Dragon

Pogona henrylawsoni

Rankin's dragon (Pogona henrylawsoni), also called Lawson's dragon or the black-soil bearded dragon, is a small Australian agamid from dry inland parts of Queensland. It resembles a compact bearded dragon but stays smaller, with a shorter head, modest beard display, and sandy to brown coloration suited to open, arid ground. Its size and calm captive reputation have made it a familiar alternative to the larger central bearded dragon, though it remains a distinct species with its own breeding lines.

Captive Rankin's dragons need reptile-appropriate heat, strong ultraviolet lighting, secure hides, and a diet that shifts from frequent insects in juveniles toward more plant matter as adults mature. Their smaller size does not remove the need for a well-planned enclosure with a true basking area and cooler retreat. Groups can work in some breeding collections, but males may harass females or fight rivals, so keepers should be ready to separate animals. Responsible breeders track lineage and avoid selling undersized young before they are feeding steadily.