Bearded Dragon Fully Grown: Everything You Need to Know
Introduction
Bearded dragons are fascinating reptiles that make great pets. They are small, easy to care for, and come in a variety of colors. But when do bearded dragons reach maturity and become fully grown? Understanding how these creatures grow and develop is important for their health and happiness.
When do bearded dragons reach full size?
On average, bearded dragons reach full size at around 18-24 months of age. Adult bearded dragons can be between 18-24 inches in length and weigh between 300-600 grams, depending on their gender, diet, and overall health.
Factors that affect growth
There are several factors that can influence the growth of your bearded dragon. These include:
- Diet: Feeding your bearded dragon a healthy and balanced diet is essential for their growth and development. A diet that is high in protein, calcium, and vitamins is necessary for a healthy bearded dragon.
- Lighting: Bearded dragons need access to UVB lighting to help them absorb calcium and grow properly.
- Temperature: Bearded dragons are cold-blooded and require a basking spot to regulate their body temperature. A suitable temperature range is between 90-110°F.
- Enclosure size: Providing your bearded dragon with a suitable enclosure is important for their growth and well-being. A minimum size of 40 gallons is recommended for one adult bearded dragon.
How to tell if your bearded dragon is fully grown
There are several signs that can indicate that your bearded dragon has reached full size:
- Length: Once your bearded dragon has reached their full length, they will not grow any longer.
- Weight: Adult bearded dragons typically weigh between 300-600 grams.
- Age: Bearded dragons reach maturity at around 18-24 months of age.
Caring for your adult bearded dragon
Once your bearded dragon has reached full size, it is important to continue providing them with proper care to ensure their health and happiness. Here are some tips for caring for your adult bearded dragon:
- Feeding: Adult bearded dragons should be fed a diet of vegetables, fruits, and insects. Offer a variety of foods to encourage your bearded dragon to eat a balanced diet.
- Water: Always provide your bearded dragon with fresh, clean water. You can also mist their enclosure to provide humidity.
- Handling: Bearded dragons can be handled and enjoy human interaction. However, be gentle and avoid picking them up by their tail or limbs.
- Cleaning: Keeping your bearded dragon’s enclosure clean is important for their health. Spot clean daily and deep clean regularly.
- Veterinary care: Regular veterinary checkups can help prevent and detect health issues. Be alert for signs of illness and seek veterinary care if necessary.
Conclusion
Bearded dragons are amazing pets that can bring joy and companionship to their owners. Understanding their growth and development is important for providing them with proper care. By feeding them a healthy diet, providing proper lighting and temperature, and caring for them as they grow, you can help ensure that your bearded dragon reaches their full potential and lives a long, healthy life.