Introduction

Bearded dragons are popular pets for reptile enthusiasts due to their friendly nature and unique appearance. As with any pet, it is important to know when they reach adulthood so you can provide appropriate care. In this blog post, we will discuss when is a bearded dragon considered an adult and what changes you can expect to see.

Bearded Dragon Lifespan

Before we discuss when a bearded dragon reaches adulthood, let’s talk about their lifespan. Bearded dragons typically live for 8-12 years in captivity. However, with proper care, some can live up to 15 years.

Age of Sexual Maturity

Bearded dragons reach sexual maturity at around 8-12 months of age. This is when they can mate and reproduce. However, just because a bearded dragon can mate does not mean it has reached full adulthood.

Physical Changes

As bearded dragons grow and mature, they will undergo physical changes. One of the most obvious changes is their size. Bearded dragons can grow up to 24 inches in length, with males generally being larger than females. In addition to size, they will also develop more vibrant colors and patterns. An adult bearded dragon will generally have more pronounced spikes and a thicker beard than a juvenile.

Behavior Changes

Bearded dragons also undergo behavior changes as they reach adulthood. They may become less tolerant of handling and more territorial. Males will often display dominance behaviors, such as head bobbing and arm waving, to establish themselves as the alpha.

Diet Changes

As bearded dragons grow and become more active, their dietary needs will also change. Juvenile bearded dragons require a diet that is high in protein and calcium. As they reach adulthood, their diet should consist of more vegetables and less protein. Adult bearded dragons should be fed a diet that consists of 80% vegetables, 20% protein.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a bearded dragon is considered an adult at around 18 months of age. However, it is important to remember that this is just a general guideline and some bearded dragons may reach adulthood earlier or later. By providing appropriate care, including a proper diet and environment, you can ensure that your bearded dragon has a long and healthy life.