Bearded Dragons

Bearded Dragons

When is Bearded Dragon Mating Season? A Beginner's Guide

Pet Care

Introduction

Bearded dragons are fascinating creatures to keep as pets. They are known for their calm nature, unique appearance, and easy-going personalities. However, as with any animal, they have certain needs and behaviors that you need to be familiar with as an owner. One such behavior is mating season. This guide will help you understand when a bearded dragon’s mating season occurs and what you can expect during this time.

What are Bearded Dragons?

Bearded dragons are lizards native to Australia. They are medium-sized, growing up to 20 inches in length. They get their name from the spiny scales under their chin that resemble a beard. Bearded dragons are known for their friendly temperament and relative ease of care, making them a popular choice for first-time reptile owners.

When is Bearded Dragon Mating Season?

Bearded dragons go through a breeding cycle that is influenced by a combination of photoperiod and temperature. This means that as daylight hours and temperatures start to increase during the spring, bearded dragons become more active and begin to exhibit signs of mating behavior. The specific time of year that mating season occurs can vary depending on where you live, but it usually occurs from late spring to early summer.

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How to Recognize Mating Behavior

During mating season, male bearded dragons will become more territorial and will try to assert dominance over other males. They may bob their heads, puff up their beards, and display a black beard in an attempt to intimidate potential rivals. Female bearded dragons, on the other hand, will display a receptive posture by lowering their heads and raising their tails in response to the male’s courtship behavior.

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What to Expect During Mating Season

If you keep male and female bearded dragons together during mating season, you can expect to see them engage in courtship behavior. This can include the male chasing the female, mounting the female, and biting the back of her neck. It is important to note that while this behavior can be fascinating to observe, it can also be stressful for the female. If you do not plan on breeding your dragons, it is recommended to keep them separated during mating season.

Conclusion

In conclusion, bearded dragons have a mating season that usually occurs from late spring to early summer. During this time, males become more territorial and females display a receptive posture. If you do not plan on breeding your dragons, it is recommended to keep them separated during mating season to minimize stress on the female. As always, it is important to observe your bearded dragons closely and seek veterinary care if you notice any unusual behavior.