Introduction ✨
Because of their curious nature, eccentricities, and cool appearance, bearded dragons are among the most gregarious and dynamic lizards. Like any pet, you will eventually fall in love with your bearded dragon and wonder, “How long do the bearded dragons get?” Well, that depends on the environment, habitat, and husbandry tips. However, considering your pet dragon as an adult; you can expect them to be between 16 and 24 inches long. The oldest bearded dragon ever recorded was 18 years old. This article will explore the factors that affect a bearded dragon’s growth, average size, and lifespan.
How Big Do Bearded Dragons Get on Average❓🐉
In their initial year of life, bearded dragons develop quickly, and their size and weight can rapidly change because of several variables, including habitat, genes, and nutrition. The maximum size of a bearded dragon in captivity is usually between 16 to 24 inches; however, some can get longer. While the average body size is about 20 inches, genetics and good care can make that bearded dragon’s size far longer.
╰┈➤Size of Hatchling, Juvenile, and Adult Bearded Dragons 🐉
There are three to four main age groups for bearded dragons, as most bearded dragon owners will agree.
🟠 Hatching
The term “hatchling” refers to bearded dragons from the time of birth to two months of age. Typically, a newborn bearded dragon will weigh as little as 4 grams and is about 3 inches long.
Moreover hatchlings usually double or even quadruple in length and gain between 4 to more than 30 grams by the time they are 2 months old.
🟠 Juvenile
Bearded dragons between the ages of three and eleven months are considered juveniles. A young bearded dragon can weigh between 20 and 400 grams and measure between 8 and 23 inches in length. However, by month 11, the majority of these bearded dragons have almost grown to their full size, exhibiting the most remarkable development rate.
╰┈➤Adult: Adulthood comes in different stages which are as follows;
- Sub-Adult (5-7 months): They typically weigh between 102-115 grams and are 11-16 inches in length by the fifth month.
- Early Adulthood (8–10 months): They usually weigh 183–188 grams and grow to a length of 11–18 inches.
- Bearded dragons are almost completely developed in late adulthood (11–12 months), with a size range of 13–24 inches and a weight of 350–465 grams.
- Complete Adult (12–18 months and up): After one year and up, they start to grow more slowly. Mature bearded dragons weigh between 380 and 510 grams and range in size from 16 to 22 inches. Additionally, they are sexually mature by this age.
Male vs Female Size Differences 🐉
In general, males tend to develop larger than female bearded dragons. When fully grown, females normally measure 18 to 22 inches, while males often reach 20 to 24 inches. Additionally, male bearded dragons weigh up to 600g and female dragons weigh up to 450g.
╰┈➤Bearded Dragon Size Chart by Age
🟠 Hatchling (0–2 months)
At hatching, a baby bearded dragon is only 2-4 inches (7.6-10.1cm) long.
🟠 Juvenile (2–6 months)
At the juvenile phase, these amazing reptiles can get 4-14 inches (30-45cm) long.
🟠 Sub-Adult (6–12 months)
At this stage, these pet reptiles can grow to 16 inches in length.
🟠 Adult (12+ months)
A fully grown healthy bearded dragon can be approximately 24 inches (40-61cm) long.
╰┈➤Factors That Affect Bearded Dragon Growth🐉
Understanding their prospective size as a devoted pet owner can help you prepare for what is ahead and the requirements you’ll need to meet. Here we have listed the core factors that have a direct effect on a bearded dragon’s size growth and lifespan.
🟠 Diet & Nutrition
For a bearded dragon to be healthy and have a long life expectancy, its diet must be well-balanced. They need a diverse diet of fruits, vegetables, and insects because they are omnivores.
These reptiles may get a lot of protein from insects including mealworms, Dubia roaches, and crickets. Vital vitamins and minerals are found in vegetables including bell peppers, kale, and collard greens. As sporadic rewards, fruits like blueberries and strawberries can be provided.
Additionally, appropriate portion amounts and avoiding overfeeding are essential. A bearded dragon’s lifespan may be shortened and health problems may result from obesity. Most importantly to avoid metabolic bone disease, you must provide calcium and vitamin D3 supplements to these pet reptiles.
🟠 Habitat Size & Lighting
Husbandry is fundamental. Numerous health issues, such as infections of the respiratory tract, diarrhea, and metabolic bone disease (MBD), might result from a poorly kept enclosure. Essential care includes a suitable enclosure size, suitable temperature variations, and sufficient UVB and UVA lights.
Moreover, it’s crucial to have a roomy cage that permits lots of exercise and mobility. Bearded dragons become more active in spacious habitats, and they require more physical activity to avoid depression and enhance their general well-being.
- Can Bearded Dragons Eat Watermelon? Pros, Cons & Feeding Tips
Introduction ✨ Watermelons are a delicious summertime delicacy since they are refreshing and sweet. If you’re considering giving your bearded… - How Long Do Bearded Dragons Live? Lifespan in Captivity vs. Wild Explained
Introduction ✨ One of the most popular reptile pets in the world, bearded dragons are renowned for their intriguing habits,… - Can Bearded Dragons Eat Tomatoes? Vet-Reviewed Feeding Guide
Introduction✨ With their bright color and juicy appeal, tomatoes might seem like a tasty and healthy treat for your bearded… - Can Bearded Dragons Eat Apples? A Complete Feeding Guide
Introduction ✨ The proper diet is crucial for the well-being of your bearded dragon. Lizards are omnivores that require diverse…
🟠 Genetics
Their life expectancy and general health can be affected by heredity. Similar to humans, bearded dragons may have an impaired immune system or be genetically prone to specific medical diseases.
🟠 Stress
A bearded dragon’s well-being and fitness may be impacted by a series of behavioral and physiological alterations that might arise when it experiences stress. However, to give your pet the best care possible, you must be aware of the ways stress might appear, from little changes in hunger and activity levels to drastic color changes and unpredictable behavior.
🟠 Veterinary Care
Most importantly, seeing a reptile veterinarian regularly is crucial for identifying and addressing health issues immediately.
How to Tell if Your Bearded Dragon Is Growing Properly❓
To find out whether or not your pet dragon is growing properly, monitoring is the key element. Let’s see in what way you can monitor their growth.
╰┈➤Signs of Healthy Growth
🟠 Weight Measurement
You can learn a lot about your bearded dragon’s growth by routinely weighing them. To weigh your dragon, use a reptile scale. Note their weight and watch for consistent growth over time.
🟠 Length Measurement
A quick and easy method to monitor your bearded dragon’s growth is to measure its length. Measure carefully starting from their mouth to the end of the tail by using a measuring tape. To determine whether there has been steady growth, take regular measurements and compare them over time with a size chart.
🟠 Excellent Digestion and Appetite
A bearded dragon in good health will digest food quickly and eat a lot. Since these reptiles are omnivores, they consume both insects and plants. A bearded dragon with a good appetite will eat its meal with hunger. Their eating patterns can reveal important information about their health. A bearded dragon that is in good health will also have frequent bowel movements. Their feces should be solid and well-shaped, showing appropriate digestion.
🟠 Sparkling Eyes
The eyes are sometimes called the reflection of inner health, and bearded dragons are no exception. A healthy dragon has eyes that are sparkling and clear.
🟠 Skin Shedding
Like other reptiles, bearded dragons occasionally shed their skin. As a natural and essential part of their growth and rejuvenation, healthy dragons will have seamless, shedding skin. By shedding, they can get rid of their old skin and expose a new, colorful layer underneath.
FAQs ❓
How long does it take for a bearded dragon to reach full size❓
A bearded dragon becomes an adult and sexually developed when it reaches its maximum size, which occurs at 12-18 months of age.
Do male bearded dragons grow bigger than females❓
Yes, male dragons often reach 20 to 24 inches when fully grown, while females typically measure 18 to 22 inches.
How can I help my bearded dragon grow faster❓
Generally speaking, a dragon that is getting full nutrition, proper husbandry care, and veterinary checkups will grow larger than one that isn’t.
It’s a matter of fact that every pet needs care for its potential growth. You can assist your bearded dragon to its maximum growth by giving them a nutritious diet, proper UVB light, and routine veterinary treatment.
Is my bearded dragon underweight or stunted❓
Lethargy, lack of appetite, and baggy skin around the neck and shoulders are important indicators of underweight bearded dragons. On the other hand, if your bearded dragon’s hip bones are noticeable or if you can easily see their spine or ribs, they may be underweight. Also, you will observe a lack of appetite and their continuous small size past 12 months.
What is the maximum size a bearded dragon can get❓
Well, if you’re wondering how big your bearded dragon could grow; the usual size is between 18 and 24 inches.
Can habitat size affect how big my bearded dragon gets❓
Well, bearded dragons in captivity aren’t given the same amount of physical activity like digging and burrowing as the dragons living in the wild, consequently, they don’t grow as big. Thus habitat matters a lot.
Final Words: (How Big do Bearded Dragons Get❓) 💡
Australia is home to the bearded dragon, a species of lizard. Bearded dragons have a lifespan of up to 20 years and can reach lengths of 2-3 feet.
Bearded dragons, on the other hand, can differ greatly in size and their habitat affects greatly in this regard. During the hatchling and juvenile phases, bearded dragons grow quickly before leveling off and ultimately reaching their full size. However, the longest bearded dragon ever discovered was nearly 4 feet long; while the smallest one ever measured was only 7 inches. But if your lizard starts to gain or lose weight, adjust their diet and surroundings until they gain ideal weight. Monitoring your reptile pet’s growth will ensure that they are happy and healthy.
