How to Tell the Age of a Bearded Dragon

There are a few different ways to estimate the age of a bearded dragon but none of them are exact. Bearded dragons grow at different rates and a number of factors such as diet, environment and genetics can affect how they grow.

These measurements are based on ages measured in months; however, once the dragon reaches a year old, growth typically continues but slows down considerably from the young age. Most females are typically sexually mature by 18 months; males at around 24 months.

Length

When hatching, most hatchling dragons will range from 7-8 inches in length.

At 6 months, most dragon will be roughly 12 inches in length.

By 12 months, they can average around 18-24 inches.

Once dragons reach 3-5 years old, growth tends to slow down drastically.

At this point, bearded dragons can reach a full adult size of 19″ to 24″ in length.

Weight

Hatchlings typically range from 8 to 20 grams.

At 1 month old, they can average between 1 and 3 ounces.

At 6 months old, they will roughly weigh between 8 to 16 ounces.

By 12 months old, beardie dragons will typically weigh between 16 to 24 ounces.

A matured bearded dragons (2 -3 years old and older) can weigh anywhere between 400 and 550 grams.

Tail

At hatching, the dragon’s tail will measure about the same length as the hatchlings’ body.

By 12 months of age, the tail can potentially be almost twice as long as the dragon’s body when measured from its mouth to its vent.

There are a couple other visual aspects to consider when trying to estimate the age of a bearded dragon:

Belly:

Newborn dragons will display a solid-colored belly, regardless of their genetic pattern.

Around 6 – 8 months, hatchling dragons may start to show their true genetic pattern on the belly.

Bearded dragons will completely develop their coloration and pattern between 12 to 24 months of age.

Size of the casque

The casque, or spiky area on top of the bearded dragon’s head, will show more spikes in older bearded dragons.

Casques will stop developing spikes once a dragon reaches the age of 2. However, the spikes may continue to grow longer throughout their lives.

Weight

The growth of a dragon can also be determined by weighing it regularly. If a dragon is eating properly, it should be gaining weight regularly. The rate at which a dragon gains weight will also slow down as it gets older.

However, some dragons can gain weight suddenly which may indicate that the bearded dragon is preparing to shed. Weight loss can be a sign of illness, so if you notice your dragon is losing weight, it is important to take it to the vet.