Owning a bearded dragon can be a rewarding experience, but knowing the age of your pet is crucial for providing proper care. Unlike humans, bearded dragons don’t have birth certificates, making it challenging to determine their exact age. However, by observing certain physical characteristics and behaviors, you can estimate your bearded dragon’s age with reasonable accuracy. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the signs that indicate the age of your beloved reptile.
One of the most reliable ways to estimate the age of a bearded dragon is by examining its size. Baby bearded dragons are typically around 2-4 inches long, while adults can reach lengths of up to 24 inches. As bearded dragons grow, they also gain weight, so you can use a kitchen scale to monitor their weight gain over time. However, it’s important to note that size and weight can vary depending on the individual bearded dragon’s genetics and diet.
In addition to size and weight, you can also look at the color and texture of your bearded dragon’s scales. Baby bearded dragons often have bright, vibrant scales that become duller and more muted as they age. The scales on the head and neck of older bearded dragons may also become thicker and more prominent. Another indicator of age is the presence of wrinkles or folds on the face and body, which become more visible as bearded dragons mature. By paying attention to these physical characteristics and behaviors, you can gain a better understanding of your bearded dragon’s age and provide them with the appropriate care they need throughout their life.
Size and Weight
Bearded dragons are relatively large lizards, with males typically being larger than females. The average adult bearded dragon is about 18-24 inches long from head to tail, and weighs between 400-700 grams. However, some bearded dragons can grow to be even larger, with some reaching lengths of over 2 feet and weights of over 1,000 grams.
Growth Rate
Bearded dragons grow rapidly during their first year of life, reaching about 80% of their adult size by the end of the year. After their first year, their growth rate slows down considerably. The following table shows the average growth rate of bearded dragons by age:
| Age | Average Length (inches) | Average Weight (grams) |
|---|---|---|
| 0-3 months | 4-6 | 10-20 |
| 3-6 months | 6-10 | 20-50 |
| 6-12 months | 10-14 | 50-100 |
| 12-18 months | 14-18 | 100-200 |
| 18-24 months | 18-22 | 200-300 |
Activity Level
As bearded dragons mature, their activity level tends to decrease. Hatchlings are typically very active, spending much of their time exploring their surroundings and seeking food. As they grow older, they become less energetic and spend more time basking or resting. Adult bearded dragons are still relatively active, but they are not as playful as they were when they were younger.
Here is a more detailed breakdown of activity levels by age group:
| Age | Activity Level |
|---|---|
| Hatchling (0-3 months) | Very active, spends much time exploring and seeking food |
| Juvenile (3-6 months) | Still very active, but less playful than hatchlings |
| Young adult (6-12 months) | Activity level starts to decrease, spends more time basking or resting |
| Adult (12 months and older) | Relatively active, but not as playful as younger bearded dragons |
Previous Owner’s Records
If you have any records from the previous owner, such as purchase receipts or veterinary records, they may contain information about the bearded dragon’s age. However, be aware that some sellers may not be accurate with the age of the animal, so it’s important to take other factors into consideration as well.
In addition, if the bearded dragon has been adopted or rescued, it may be difficult to determine its exact age. In these cases, it is best to consult with a veterinarian to get an estimate based on the dragon’s size and development.
| Sign | Age Range |
|---|---|
| Length: 6-8 inches | 0-3 months |
| Length: 9-12 inches | 3-6 months |
| Length: 13-18 inches | 6-9 months |
| Length: 19-24 inches | 9-12 months |
| Length: 25-30 inches | 12+ months |
How To Tell How Old My Bearded Dragon Is
Determining the age of a bearded dragon can be a bit tricky, as there are no definitive physical signs that indicate their exact age. However, there are a few clues you can look for to give you a general idea.
Size
One of the most obvious indicators of a bearded dragon’s age is its size. Baby bearded dragons are typically about 4-6 inches long, while adults can range from 18-24 inches long.
Weight
Another indicator of age is weight. Baby bearded dragons typically weigh less than 1 ounce, while adults can weigh up to 1 pound or more.
Coloration
The coloration of a bearded dragon’s scales can also give you some clues about its age. Baby bearded dragons typically have bright, vibrant colors, while adults may have more muted colors.
Beard
The size and shape of a bearded dragon’s beard can also be an indicator of its age. Baby bearded dragons have small, thin beards, while adults may have larger, thicker beards.
People Also Ask About How To Tell How Old My Bearded Dragon Is
How old is a 12 inch bearded dragon?
A 12 inch bearded dragon is likely between 6 and 12 months old.
What is the average lifespan of a bearded dragon?
The average lifespan of a bearded dragon is 8-10 years.
How can I tell if my bearded dragon is healthy?
There are a few signs that indicate a bearded dragon is healthy, including a good appetite, clear eyes, and a bright, vibrant color.
