Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hey all -
Two days ago my friends dad let me have his Bearded (Ruby). When he gave Ruby to me, he told me that he didn't bother feeding her crickets, and left her UV and heat light on 24/7. She seems perfectly healthy and aware, however she is only around 7 or 8 inches long from head to tail and I think she is like 8 or 9 months old. I am pretty sure this is below average size for a BD, and I was wondering if I should start her on crickets, turn her lights off at night (it stays around 70-72º at night), and if she will ever reach a normal size for a bearded. Any help would be appreciated.
-Evan

YES, start her on crix, roaches, silkies, whatever, she needs live food protien. If she is that old she is severely undersized and possibly a failure to thrive. Make sure to supplement her food also with calcium and vitamins. I'd also run her through a vet for a fecal and a checkup. Turn off the lights at night, your house is warm enough she won't need any extra heat during this time. I'd read up on as many care sheets as you can, start with mine www.heartmountainherps.com and check out www.beautifuldragons.com for food info. Good luck

Sean
-----
Heart Mountain Herps

Ok thanks. I fed her small crickets w/ repcal herptivite and calcium, she seemed to enjoy them. Last question. Every now and then, especially when I come near her she shuts her left eye for a minute but leaves her right one open. Why is this happening, and is it a bad sign? thanks