Bearded Dragon Egg Laying - A Beginner’s Guide

One of the most exciting things about owning a bearded dragon is the possibility of them laying eggs. However, for first-time owners, this process can also be overwhelming and confusing. So, if you’re a beginner wondering what to expect when your bearded dragon lays eggs, you’ve come to the right place! In this guide, we’ll take a look at everything you need to know about bearded dragon egg laying, including when it happens, how to prepare, and what to do with the eggs once they’re laid.

When Does Egg Laying Happen?

Female bearded dragons typically start laying eggs when they reach sexual maturity at around 18 months of age. However, this can vary depending on the individual dragon, and some may not start laying until they’re a bit older.

The egg-laying process usually occurs in the spring and summer months when the days are longer and the temperatures are warmer. However, some females may lay eggs year-round if conditions such as lighting and temperature are optimal.

Preparing for Egg Laying

Preparing for egg laying is all about creating the right environment for your female bearded dragon. Here are some things you can do:

Provide a Nesting Area

Creating a nesting area is crucial for your bearded dragon’s comfort during egg laying. This could be a separate lay box or a corner of their enclosure filled with substrate like eco earth or soil. Make sure the substrate is deep enough for your dragon to dig down into and also moist enough to hold its shape.

Check Lighting and Temperature

Maintaining the ideal lighting and temperature is essential for your dragon’s health and well-being. It’s important to provide a basking spot where your dragon can raise its body temperature to help with the egg-laying process. You should also make sure your enclosure has a cool side and a warm side, with a temperature gradient of around 75-85°F (24-29°C).

Provide Plenty of Water

Female bearded dragons will drink a lot of water leading up to egg laying, so make sure there is always plenty of fresh water available. This will help keep your dragon hydrated and prevent any complications during the laying process.

The Laying Process

When your bearded dragon is ready to lay eggs, she will start digging in the substrate of her enclosure. This can take anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days. Once she has created a suitable nest, she will lay her eggs one at a time, with each egg taking about 15-20 minutes to lay.

Once all the eggs are laid, your dragon will cover them up with the substrate and may spend some time rearranging the area to her liking. At this point, it’s essential to leave the eggs alone and undisturbed for the next few months until they hatch.

What to Do with the Eggs

Once your bearded dragon has laid her eggs, there are a few things you can do to ensure the best chance of survival for the hatchlings. Here are some tips:

Remove Infertile Eggs

It’s natural for not all the eggs to hatch successfully. So, after about a week of laying the eggs, you can carefully remove any eggs that show no signs of development. This will help prevent any spoiled eggs from contaminating the others in the clutch.

Incubate the Eggs

Bearded dragon eggs typically require around 60-80 days of incubation before they hatch. You can either leave them in the enclosure or move them to a separate incubation container with a substrate of damp vermiculite or perlite. Make sure the temperature and humidity are stable, and regularly check for any signs of mold or bacteria growth.

Don’t Help the Hatchlings Out of the Egg

It’s tempting to want to help the hatchlings out of their eggs as they start to hatch, but resist the urge! This can cause the hatchlings to bleed out or deform if their umbilical cords are still attached. The hatchlings will emerge from the eggs on their own when they’re ready, and it may take a few days for all the eggs to hatch.

Conclusion

Bearded dragon egg laying is a fascinating process and a unique experience for any pet owner. With the proper preparation and knowledge, you can help ensure a successful egg-laying process and a healthy clutch of hatchlings. Remember, always consult with an experienced reptile vet if you have any concerns or questions.