How Big do Bearded Dragons Grow?

Bearded dragons are popular pet reptiles known for their calm demeanor, unique appearance and ease of care. However, before bringing one of these lizards into your home, it is essential to understand how big they can grow. The size of your bearded dragon will impact its living environment, feeding requirements, and overall care. In this guide, we’ll answer the question ‘How big are bearded dragons?’ and provide all the information a beginner needs to care for their pet properly.

Bearded Dragon Size by Age and Gender

Bearded dragons grow quickly in the first year of life and then start to slow down as they enter into their adulthood. This means that the size of your bearded dragon will depend on its age and gender.

Male Bearded Dragon Size

Male bearded dragons will typically grow larger than their female counterparts, measuring anywhere between 16 to 24 inches in length. It is not uncommon for a male bearded dragon to weigh between 350 and 600 grams.

Female Bearded Dragon Size

Female bearded dragons are generally smaller than males and grow to be between 14 to 20 inches in length. Their weight can range from 250 to 450 grams.

Factors That Affect Bearded Dragon Size

While the gender and age of bearded dragons play a role in their size, there are a few other factors that can impact how big they grow.

Genetics

Like with any animal, genetics can impact the size of your bearded dragon. If you get your bearded dragon from a smaller line, the chances are high that it will not grow to be as big as other bearded dragons.

Environmental Conditions

The environment in which your bearded dragon lives plays a significant role in its growth. If the temperature, lighting conditions, and humidity levels are not optimal, it can stunt their growth and lead to health complications.

What Size Enclosure Does a Bearded Dragon Need?

Bearded dragons are active lizards that require enough space to move around and play. As a general rule of thumb, you’ll need an enclosure that is at least 36 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 18 inches tall for adult bearded dragons. However, this is the minimum size, and it’s always better to provide more space if you can.

Feeding a Bearded Dragon of Different Sizes

The feeding requirements for bearded dragons will vary depending on their size. Younger bearded dragons will need to eat more frequently than adults to support their rapid growth. Once they reach adulthood, the frequency of feedings can decrease.

Juvenile Bearded Dragons

Juvenile bearded dragons will need to be fed four to five times per day. Aim for three live insects per feeding, increasing the number as your bearded dragon grows. You can also supplement their diet with fresh fruits and vegetables.

Adult Bearded Dragons

Adult bearded dragons will typically eat fewer insects and require vitamin and calcium supplements to maintain a healthy diet. Feed adult bearded dragons three to four live insects per day and supplement their diet with fresh fruits and vegetables.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the size of bearded dragons is crucial to their proper care. As a beginner, it’s essential to know the different sizes between male and female bearded dragons, the factors that affect their growth, and feeding requirements. The best way to ensure your bearded dragon grows to its maximum potential is to create an optimal living environment and provide consistent care and attention.