Pregnant Bearded Dragon Belly: What You Need to Know
Introduction
If you own a bearded dragon, you may notice changes in their behavior and appearance when they are pregnant. One of the most notable changes is their belly getting larger. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about pregnant bearded dragon bellies, including how to care for them and what to expect during egg-laying.
What Does a Pregnant Bearded Dragon Belly Look Like?
When a bearded dragon is pregnant, her belly will start to get larger and rounder. The size and shape of the belly can vary depending on the number of eggs that she is carrying. A pregnant bearded dragon’s belly may also turn a pink or reddish color due to the increased blood flow.
How to Care for a Pregnant Bearded Dragon Belly
It’s important to take extra care of your pregnant bearded dragon to ensure that she is healthy and comfortable. Here are some tips to help care for her belly:
1. Provide Adequate Space and Heat
Make sure that your bearded dragon has enough space to move around and that her enclosure is appropriately heated. Pregnant bearded dragons may require additional heat to support their growing eggs. The temperature in her enclosure should be between 80-85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and around 70 degrees Fahrenheit at night.
2. Offer Nutritious Food
During pregnancy, your bearded dragon will need a well-balanced and nutritious diet. She will require more calcium to support the growth of her eggs, so make sure to provide her with plenty of calcium-rich foods like kale, collard greens, and calcium supplements.
3. Provide a Suitable Nesting Location
Before laying her eggs, your bearded dragon will need a suitable nesting location. This can be a box filled with moist soil or sand. Make sure to provide a shallow area for her to lay her eggs, and offer a warm and quiet location where she can lay her eggs in peace.
What to Expect During Egg-Laying
After a period of about four to six weeks, your pregnant bearded dragon will lay her eggs. During this time, you may notice changes in her behavior, such as increased digging, loss of appetite, and restlessness. As she gets closer to laying her eggs, she may become more lethargic and spend more time in her nesting box.
How Many Eggs Will She Lay?
The number of eggs that your bearded dragon will lay depends on her size and age. A typical clutch can range from 10-25 eggs, and larger females may lay up to 40 eggs. It’s essential to count the eggs when they are laid to make sure that they are all accounted for and to monitor the health of the female.
What Happens after Egg-Laying?
After your bearded dragon lays her eggs, she will need to be given time to recover. During this time, you should continue to provide her with a warm and nutritious diet. It’s also crucial to monitor her for any signs of health problems, such as egg-binding, which is a severe condition where the female is unable to lay her eggs, and medical intervention may be needed.
Conclusion
In summary, a pregnant bearded dragon’s belly will get larger and rounder as she carries her eggs. Caring for her during this time is essential to ensure that she is healthy, comfortable, and able to lay her eggs successfully. Remember to offer adequate space and heat, nutritious food, and a suitable nesting location. If you notice any health problems, seek veterinary care immediately. With proper care and attention, your pregnant bearded dragon can have a successful egg-laying experience!