Bearded dragons are popular pets, and it’s important to know how old yours is to provide the best possible care. Their age can affect their diet, housing, and overall health needs. Fortunately, there are a few key indicators that can help you determine the age of your bearded dragon. By examining their size, weight, and physical characteristics, you can get a good estimate of their age and ensure they get the appropriate care they need.
One of the most obvious ways to tell the age of a bearded dragon is by its size. Baby bearded dragons are typically around 4-6 inches long, and they grow to be about 18-24 inches long when fully mature. However, it’s important to note that size can vary depending on the species of bearded dragon and its overall health. So, while size can be a helpful indicator, it’s not always an exact science.
Another way to tell the age of a bearded dragon is by its weight. Baby bearded dragons typically weigh around 10-20 grams, and they gain weight gradually as they grow. Adult bearded dragons typically weigh between 350-500 grams, but again, this can vary depending on the species and health of the individual. If you’re unsure about the weight of your bearded dragon, consult with a veterinarian for an accurate assessment.
Examining Scales and Scutes
Bearded dragons have overlapping scales covering their entire body, and these scales can provide clues to their age. Juvenile bearded dragons have smaller, smoother scales that are often slightly translucent. As they age, their scales become larger, thicker, and more opaque.
Scutes
In addition to scales, bearded dragons also have larger, rectangular scales called scutes on their belly, back, and head. The scutes on the belly are called ventral scutes, and the scutes on the back are called dorsal scutes. The scutes on the head are called supraocular scutes and they are located above the eyes.
Juvenile bearded dragons have fewer scutes than adults, and their scutes are often more pointed. As they age, their scutes become more rounded and they increase in number. The number of ventral scutes on a bearded dragon can be used to estimate its age, as shown in the table below:
| Number of Ventral Scutes | Age Range |
|---|---|
| 25-30 | 0-6 months |
| 30-35 | 6-12 months |
| 35-40 | 12-18 months |
| 40-45 | 18 months+ |
Studying Toe and Finger Pad Development
The development of toe and finger pads provides valuable clues about a bearded dragon’s age. Here are the distinct stages to observe:
0-2 Weeks
Pads are soft and translucent, with no distinct definition.
2-4 Weeks
Pads start to develop a slight definition, but remain relatively smooth.
4-6 Weeks
Pads become more defined and the scales start to appear.
6-8 Weeks
Pads reach their full development, becoming firm, well-defined, and covered in scales. The scales may be slightly rough to the touch.
8-12 Weeks
Pads continue to thicken and darken in color. The scales on the pads become more pronounced and may start to develop a granular texture. The pads may also become slightly wrinkled.
Table: Toe and Finger Pad Development Timeline
| Age (Weeks) | Toe and Finger Pad Development |
|---|---|
| 0-2 | Soft, translucent, no definition |
| 2-4 | Slight definition, smooth |
| 4-6 | Defined, scales appear |
| 6-8 | Fully developed, firm, defined, scaled |
| 8-12 | Thicken, darken, granular scales, slight wrinkles |
12+ Weeks
Pads continue to thicken and develop a more wrinkled appearance. The scales on the pads become more prominent and may develop a slightly bumpy texture.
Comparing to Growth Charts and Standards
To accurately determine your bearded dragon’s age, you can compare its size and weight to established growth charts and standards. These charts provide average measurements for bearded dragons at different ages, allowing you to estimate your pet’s age based on its current dimensions.
However, it’s crucial to note that growth rates can vary among individual bearded dragons due to factors such as genetics, diet, and environment. Therefore, these charts should be used as a general guideline rather than an exact science.
Size and Weight Measurements
The table below provides approximate size and weight measurements for bearded dragons at different ages:
| Age (Months) | Snout-Vent Length (inches) | Weight (grams) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2-3 | 20-30 |
| 2 | 4-5 | 40-60 |
| 3 | 6-7 | 60-90 |
| 4 | 8-9 | 90-120 |
| 5 | 10-11 | 120-150 |
| 6 | 12-13 | 150-180 |
| 7 | 14-15 | 180-210 |
| 8 | 16-17 | 210-240 |
| 9 | 18-20 | 240-270 |
| 10 | 20-22 | 270-300 |
| 11 | 22-24 | 300-330 |
| 12 | 24-26 | 330-360 |
Consulting with a Reptile Veterinarian
Consulting with a qualified reptile veterinarian is the most reliable method to determine the age of a bearded dragon. Experienced veterinarians can assess various physical characteristics, such as size, weight, bone structure, and tooth wear, to provide an accurate age estimate.
Here are some additional tips for estimating the age of a bearded dragon based on its physical characteristics:
- Size: Younger bearded dragons are generally smaller than adults. Baby beardies are typically 2-4 inches long, while adults can grow up to 24 inches in length.
- Weight: Baby bearded dragons weigh around 10-15 grams, while adults can weigh up to 1 pound.
- Bone Structure: The skull and bones of young beardies are softer and less developed than those of adults.
- Tooth Wear: As bearded dragons age, their teeth may show some wear and tear.
- Head Shape: Baby bearded dragons have a more rounded head shape, while adults have a more angular head shape.
- Tail Length: The tail of a bearded dragon is typically twice the length of its body.
- Beard Coloration: The beard of a young bearded dragon may be lighter in color, while adult beards are usually darker and more vibrant.
- Eye Color: Baby bearded dragons have dark eyes, which gradually lighten as they age.
- Behavior: Young bearded dragons are typically more active and curious, while adults are more laid-back and relaxed.
- Sex: Female bearded dragons tend to grow larger than males.
How To Tell How Old My Bearded Dragon Is
Bearded dragons are popular pets, and many owners are curious about how old their dragons are. There are a few ways to tell the age of a bearded dragon, but the most accurate method is to look at their size and weight.
Bearded dragons grow rapidly during their first year of life, and their size can be a good indicator of their age. A healthy bearded dragon will typically grow to be about 12-18 inches long by the time they are one year old. After their first year, their growth will slow down considerably, and they will only gain a few inches in length each year.
In addition to their size, you can also use your bearded dragon’s weight to estimate their age. A healthy bearded dragon will typically weigh between 200 and 400 grams by the time they are one year old. After their first year, their weight will continue to increase, but at a slower rate.
If you are unsure about your bearded dragon’s age, it is always best to consult with a veterinarian. A veterinarian can examine your dragon and give you a more accurate estimate of their age.
People Also Ask About How To Tell How Old My Bearded Dragon Is
How can I tell if my bearded dragon is overweight?
If you are concerned that your bearded dragon may be overweight, you should look for the following signs:
- A potbelly
- Excess fat around their tail
- Difficulty moving
- Lethargy
What is the average lifespan of a bearded dragon?
Bearded dragons typically live for 8-10 years. However, with proper care, some dragons can live for up to 15 years.
