Introduction

The Eastern Bearded Dragon, also known as Pogona Barbata, is a fascinating reptile species that is popular among pet owners. It comes from Australia and is known for its beard-like projection under its chin that can be inflated to make it look more menacing. One of the most important things to consider before getting an Eastern Bearded Dragon as a pet is their size. In this blog post, we will be discussing everything you need to know about Eastern Bearded Dragon size.

How Big Do Eastern Bearded Dragons Grow?

Eastern Bearded Dragons are a medium-sized lizard species. They usually grow up to 60 centimeters in length, including their tail, and can weigh up to 600 grams. However, the size of a bearded dragon can vary depending on various factors such as gender, genetics, diet, and environment. Male Eastern Bearded Dragons are generally larger than females, and some individuals can grow up to 70 centimeters in length.

The Different Stages in the Growth of an Eastern Bearded Dragon

Like most reptiles, Eastern Bearded Dragons go through different stages in their growth. At the juvenile stage, which lasts for the first year of their life, they can grow up to 25 centimeters in length. At this stage, they require a lot of protein for their growth, and their diet should include insects such as crickets, mealworms, and Dubia roaches. At the subadult stage, which lasts between one and two years, their growth rate slows down, and they require fewer insects. At this stage, they can grow up to 40 centimeters in length. At the adult stage, which starts at around two years of age, they reach their maximum size.

Factors That Affect the Size of an Eastern Bearded Dragon

As previously mentioned, the size of an Eastern Bearded Dragon can vary depending on several factors. Here are some of the most common factors that can affect their size:

Gender

Male Eastern Bearded Dragons are generally larger than females. Males have larger heads, broader shoulders, and longer tails than females. Some individuals can grow up to 70 centimeters in length.

Genetics

The genetics of an Eastern Bearded Dragon can also play a role in their size. If both parents are large, their offspring is likely to be large as well. However, if one parent is small, their offspring may not grow to their maximum size.

Diet

The diet of an Eastern Bearded Dragon can also affect their size. They require a lot of protein for their growth, especially during the juvenile stage. Insects such as crickets, mealworms, and Dubia roaches are ideal for their diet. However, overfeeding them can lead to obesity and other health problems.

Environment

The environment of an Eastern Bearded Dragon can also affect their size. They require a spacious enclosure with adequate lighting, heating, and humidity levels. A stressful environment can stunt their growth and lead to health problems.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Eastern Bearded Dragons are a fascinating reptile species that can make great pets. It is essential to consider their size before getting them as pets to ensure that you can provide them with a suitable environment. Remember that their size can vary depending on various factors such as gender, genetics, diet, and environment. With the right care, Eastern Bearded Dragons can live for up to 10-15 years.