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What Are the Best Tips for Breeding Bearded Dragons?

Marjorie McAtee
Marjorie McAtee

Breeding bearded dragons can be an expensive and time-consuming process. The typical female bearded dragon lays 20 to 30 eggs per clutch, and may lay up to three clutches, spaced three to four weeks apart, every time she is bred, since females of this species are usually capable of retaining sperm. The juvenile lizards usually can't be sold until they are at least six to eight weeks old, so breeding bearded dragons usually means looking after multiple clutches of varying ages at one time. Breeding these lizards generally requires both a male and a female bearded dragon of breeding age, which should ideally be kept in separate cages except during the act of mating itself. Once laid, the bearded dragon eggs usually need to be incubated for anywhere from 60 to 100 days.

A breeding pair of the pet lizards commonly known as bearded dragons should generally be about 18 months of age. The female should usually weigh at least 14.1 ounces (400 grams) and the male should be large enough to mount her. Some specimens, especially males, have been known to display mating behaviors and even mate before they reach full maturity. It is, however, considered best for the health of the lizards and the viability of their eggs if they are allowed to mature fully before breeding.

Breeding bearded dragons requires a significant investment of time and resources.
Breeding bearded dragons requires a significant investment of time and resources.

Two mature adults of opposite sexes can typically be placed in the same cage for breeding purposes. Once mating has occurred, the female should be removed back to her own cage. Housing the two lizards together can cause the male to become excessively aggressive towards the female as he attempts to mate constantly, and the female can sustain permanent harm.

Bearded dragons should be free of disease, mites or illness when for sale.
Bearded dragons should be free of disease, mites or illness when for sale.

Males will generally bob their heads and wave their forelegs at the female to express a desire to mate. Their beards will typically turn dark or black. The male will usually mount the female by holding her down and grasping the back of her neck firmly in his jaws. If the female becomes gravid, or pregnant with eggs, she will generally experience a significant increase in appetite, and can gain between 2.5 and 3.5 ounces (70 to 100 grams) of weight.

Bearded dragons typically bury their eggs in damp sand. Those interested in breeding bearded dragons are generally advised to provide a container about 2 feet (61 centimeters) wide and 18 inches (45.7 centimeters) deep, filled with damp sand. The female will generally dig a hole and bury her eggs here when she is ready. Signs of imminent laying include frantic behavior and a loss of appetite on the female's part.

Once the eggs have been laid, they will typically need to be removed to an incubator. The eggs will need to be incubated in a humid environment, at a temperature of about 84 degrees Fahrenheit (28.9 Celsius). Most incubators incorporate a dampened substrate such as vermiculite.

Keeping the eggs both warm and moist is considered essential to breeding bearded dragons successfully, since most reptile eggs require some level of humidity for proper development. Newly hatched juveniles should generally be housed in small groups, and will usually need to be fed two or three times per day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ideal age for breeding bearded dragons?

Bearded dragons should reach sexual maturity before breeding, which typically occurs around 18-24 months of age. It's crucial to ensure that both male and female dragons are healthy and of appropriate weight, as breeding too early can lead to health issues for the female, including a higher risk of egg binding.

How do I know if my bearded dragons are ready to breed?

Signs that bearded dragons are ready to breed include increased activity, more vivid coloration, head bobbing from males, and arm waving from females. Females may also start digging as they look for a place to lay eggs. It's important to observe these behaviors to ensure they are at the right stage for breeding.

What kind of environment is best for breeding bearded dragons?

A comfortable and stress-free environment is essential for successful breeding. This includes a spacious enclosure, proper temperature gradients (with basking spots around 95-100°F), and UVB lighting. A separate lay box filled with moistened substrate should be provided for the female to deposit her eggs.

How often should I feed my bearded dragons during the breeding process?

During the breeding season, bearded dragons' nutritional needs increase. Offer a diet rich in calcium and vitamins to support egg development and overall health. Adults typically eat once a day, but gravid (pregnant) females may require more frequent feedings with additional calcium supplementation to support egg production.

What should I do with the eggs once they are laid?

Once the eggs are laid, carefully transfer them to an incubator set at a stable temperature of 80-85°F with a humidity level around 80%. The eggs should be placed in a medium like vermiculite or perlite and should not be rotated or turned. Incubation can take 50-80 days depending on temperature and conditions.

How do I ensure the health of the hatchlings once they emerge?

After hatching, provide the young bearded dragons with a suitable enclosure that has a temperature gradient, UVB lighting, and plenty of space to grow. Offer small, appropriately-sized insects and finely chopped greens. Hatchlings require more frequent feedings, typically 2-3 times a day, with calcium and vitamin supplements to support their rapid growth.

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    • Breeding bearded dragons requires a significant investment of time and resources.
      By: Jacqui Jones
      Breeding bearded dragons requires a significant investment of time and resources.
    • Bearded dragons should be free of disease, mites or illness when for sale.
      Bearded dragons should be free of disease, mites or illness when for sale.