Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hey Everyone,

My bearded dragon is about 15 months old. She had some growth problems in the beginning--possibly due to a nutrient deficiency in her early development. Shes been doing great for a while now; however, I'm concerned that her stunt in growth could have affected her ability to brumate and breed.

She is very healthy looking, but she is only 14 inches. (Hopefully my picture comes out) I have not had a female beardie in the past--all big boys--so I'm not sure whether she is too small. My boys have started to brumate on their own (I did reduce light hours though), but she is wide-awake.

My question is whether I should try to initiate brumation by reducing temps and food, or should I not try this year?

Also, do you think she will be able to mate in the spring... or ever?

Thanks so much,
Marie

I figured out how to post a picture.. here is my beardie (thats a quarter next to her)

At 15 months she will continue to grow and fill out. I can't give you an opinion based in length. Ideally she really should be heavier than 350 grams to safely lay eggs, although it's not uncommon for dragons to lay eggs at lighter weights.

Personally, I would not try to brumate her. I would keep her conditions as normal. If she wants to brumate she will regardless of what you do. I've learned that dragons really know what's best for them and it's really not the best idea to try to get them to do something they are not ready for.