#19523

 Newbie Breeder has Questions...

Hello all! Just a few questions, really; I have two bearded dragons, 1 male approx. 1 1/2 yr old (already proven breeder), 1 female who is very young (under a yr old), and I was wondering, about how old should she be before she is at a breedable phase? Would it be possible to, at some later date, try to introduce them to mate, or is it a case of trying to find a more suitable mate? In keeping them both safe, how should they be "introduced"? What are the requirements for breeding? I hate to sound like a complete know-nothing, but I would like as much information regarding the whole process and requirements of breeding bearded dragons. Thank you!!

 #19525

 Newbie Breeder has Questions...

Well I’m not an expert, but I do have many and will give you any help I can. She needs to have been finished growing for at least 6 months. That way you don’t deprive her body of the calcium she needs to grow to produce eggs instead. As far as introducing them you can do it slowly by letting them have SUPERVISED playtime or baths together. Someone said a few days ago you can rearrange the cage so that no one feels like they dominate it because it is a "new" space. When you do finally decide she is ready you need to be sure to give her extra calcium before and during her pregnancy. Also know that it is not uncommon for the first clutch to be infertile and or small. I’m not really sure what you mean by "requirements" though, could you elaborate? I hope the other information is helpful!

 #19542

 Newbie Breeder has Questions...

I have a male that is 4 years old & my female is almost 2. I introduced them when they became equal sizes. If one happens to be smaller by a few inches, there can be to much dominence between them. I know someone who had a male in with three females & he tore them up. I mean missing tales & limbs. So I agree at first make sure they are supervised & compatable for eachother. As far as other info regarding breeding.. I’d pick up a few books. Of course not all info is the same, but if you have a specific question.....we’re all here to help you out.

 #19847

 Newbie Breeder has Questions...

The general plan was to let her reach about 1 yr +, or approx. the same size. We allowed them to see each other on the floor, and when she saw him, she flared her beard. Is that an indication of stress? And when the time arrives to try, what calcium should be used? is it a food, or atype of supplement? And by requirements, I meant should the viv be a certain size? Any special substrate, or reptisand? Heat requirements? What are the indications of mating? I know the beards go a different color, and they bob their heads and stuff, but is there anything i should really keep an eye out for?

 #19871

 Newbie Breeder has Questions...

Well first of all you should always be using a calcium supplement on a daily basis or at least 5 times a week not just for breeding. You should also give a mulitvitamin supplement 1-2 days a week. They are both a powder form. A good size for 1-2 adults is 4x2x2. Heat and everything can be the same as normal. Females wave their arms as well. Mating can take only a few seconds so it is very easy to miss. When it is time to lay she will need a lay box. I use a mixture of sand and potting soil w/no additives and for now I’m using just a sterelite tub for it. Mound it up to about a foot on one end and start a little hole for her. This is some time off though. Hope this helps.