Bearded dragons, also known as Pogona, are a species of lizard native to parts of Australia. They’re one of the most popular pet lizards, and they have a unique life cycle that’s quite different from other lizards. In this article, we’ll take a look at the whole life cycle of a bearded dragon, from egg to adult.
Egg Laying and Hatching
Female bearded dragons will lay a clutch of eggs in a shallow nest. The eggs are usually a white or tan color and are about the size of a ping pong ball. The eggs are incubated for about 60 days, after which they hatch.
Baby Bearded Dragons
Once the eggs hatch, the baby bearded dragons emerge. They're about two inches long and have a yellowish-orange color. They're able to move around and feed on their own right away. Baby bearded dragons are very active and curious and will explore their environment.
Juvenile Bearded Dragons
As the baby bearded dragons grow, they develop their adult coloration. Juvenile bearded dragons are usually darker in color, and may have stripes or spots. They also have longer, thicker tails and larger heads. Juvenile bearded dragons can grow up to 12 inches in length.
Adult Bearded Dragons
Adult bearded dragons reach their full size and coloration at around 18 months of age. They can grow up to 24 inches in length and can live for up to 15 years in captivity. Adult bearded dragons are usually a brownish-gray color, with darker stripes or spots.
Reproducing
Bearded dragons reach sexual maturity at around 18 months of age. When it's time to mate, the males will compete for the attention of the female. The male will then perform a courtship ritual and if the female is receptive, they will mate.
Egg Laying
Once the female has mated, she will lay her clutch of eggs in a shallow nest. She will then guard the eggs until they hatch. The eggs will incubate for about 60 days, after which they will hatch.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do bearded dragons live?
Bearded dragons can live for up to 15 years in captivity.
What do baby bearded dragons look like?
Baby bearded dragons are about two inches long and have a yellowish-orange color. They can move around and feed on their own right away.
What is the courtship ritual of bearded dragons?
The male will perform a courtship ritual in order to attract the female. This involves head bobbing and tail waving. If the female is receptive, they will mate.
At what age do bearded dragons reach sexual maturity?
Bearded dragons reach sexual maturity at around 18 months of age.
How long does it take for a clutch of bearded dragon eggs to hatch?
A clutch of bearded dragon eggs will incubate for about 60 days, after which they will hatch.
What is the average size of an adult bearded dragon?
Adult bearded dragons can grow up to 24 inches in length.
What color are adult bearded dragons?
Adult bearded dragons are usually a brownish-gray color, with darker stripes or spots.
What do bearded dragons eat?
Bearded dragons are omnivores, so they eat both plant and animal matter. They eat a variety of foods, including insects, fruits, vegetables, and even small mammals such as mice.
Do bearded dragons need UVB light?
Yes, bearded dragons need UVB light in order to synthesize vitamin D3, which is essential for their health. Without UVB light, bearded dragons can develop metabolic bone disease.
Do bearded dragons need a heat lamp?
Yes, bearded dragons need a heat lamp in order to regulate their body temperature. The temperature should be kept between 80-90°F (27-32°C).
Do bearded dragons need a humidifier?
No, bearded dragons do not need a humidifier. They prefer low humidity levels and can even become dehydrated if the humidity levels are too high.
Do bearded dragons need water?
Yes, bearded dragons need plenty of fresh, clean water. They should be offered a shallow dish of water at all times.
Do bearded dragons need a bath?
No, bearded dragons do not need a bath. They will take regular baths in their water dish if they are kept in a clean environment.
Do bearded dragons make good pets?
Yes, bearded dragons make great pets. They are docile and easy to handle, and they are generally very friendly and inquisitive.