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Bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps) grow at a relatively rapid rate during their first year of life, with growth slowing significantly after they reach maturity. Here’s a general breakdown of their growth rate:
### **Hatchling Stage (0–2 months)**
- **Size**: 3–4 inches (7–10 cm) at birth.
- **Growth Rate**: They grow quickly, gaining about 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) per month.
- **Weight**: Around 2–5 grams at birth, increasing to 10–20 grams by 2 months.
### **Juvenile Stage (3–11 months)**
- **Size**: By 3 months, they are typically 8–11 inches (20–28 cm). By 6 months, they can reach 12–16 inches (30–40 cm).
- **Growth Rate**: They continue to grow rapidly, gaining about 1–1.5 inches (2.5–4 cm) per month.
- **Weight**: Weight increases significantly, reaching 100–300 grams by 6 months and 300–500 grams by 11 months.
### **Sub-Adult Stage (12–18 months)**
- **Size**: Most bearded dragons reach 16–20 inches (40–50 cm) by 12 months.
- **Growth Rate**: Growth slows down, with only 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) gained over several months.
- **Weight**: They typically weigh between 400–600 grams.
### **Adult Stage (18+ months)**
- **Size**: Fully grown bearded dragons are usually 18–24 inches (45–60 cm) long, with males generally being larger than females.
- **Growth Rate**: Growth stops or becomes minimal after 18 months.
- **Weight**: Adults typically weigh between 400–800 grams, depending on diet, genetics, and overall health.
### **Factors Affecting Growth Rate**
1. **Diet**: A balanced diet of insects, vegetables, and occasional fruits is crucial for healthy growth.
2. **Lighting**: Proper UVB lighting is essential for calcium absorption and bone development.
3. **Temperature**: A warm basking area and cooler zones in the enclosure help regulate metabolism and digestion.
4. **Genetics**: Some bearded dragons may grow larger or smaller depending on their genetic background.
5. **Health**: Parasites, illness, or stress can stunt growth.
https://www.beardiehq.com/2025/01/how-long-does-it-take-for-bearded.html### **Monitoring Growth**
Regularly measuring and weighing your bearded dragon can help ensure they are growing at a healthy rate. If you notice any significant deviations or signs of stunted growth, consult a reptile veterinarian.
Here's an image showing the typical growth rate of a bearded dragon:
Key Points:
Remember: This is a general guideline. Individual bearded dragons may grow at slightly different rates. If you have concerns about your bearded dragon's growth, consult with a veterinarian specializing in reptiles.
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