Bearded Dragon Age Calculator: Estimate Your Lizard’s Age
While size can be an indicator of age in young, growing bearded dragons, it becomes less reliable as they reach adulthood. Knowing the hatch date is the only truly accurate way to determine age.
Bearded Dragon Age Calculator
Aging Bearded Dragons: Size and Lifespan
Bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps) are popular reptiles due to their friendly demeanor and manageable size. With proper care, they live 8–12 years in captivity, though some exceed 15.
Age estimation is possible during the growth phase:
| Life Stage | Approx. Age Range | Growth & Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| Hatchling | 0–2 months | ~3–4 inches total length |
| Juvenile | 2–6 months | Rapid growth, ~6–9 inches by 3 months |
| Sub-Adult | 6–18 months | Slower growth, ~10–15 inches by 6 months |
| Adult | 18+ months | ~16–24 inches total, minimal growth |
Important: Once full size is reached, visual aging becomes difficult. Signs of aging may include:
- Less activity or appetite
- Duller coloration (also due to shedding/stress)
- Loss of body mass
- Cloudy eyes or arthritis signs in older individuals (7+ years)
- Bearded Dragon Lifespan Summary
| Care Level | Typical Lifespan |
|---|---|
| Good Care | 8–12 years |
| Excellent Care | Up to 15+ years |
| Poor Care | 3–6 years |
How This Calculator Works
This tool estimates age based on:
- Length (from snout to tail tip)
- General growth charts for bearded dragons
- Average captive lifespan data
Remember: Growth can vary significantly based on:
- Diet quality and feeding frequency
- UVB exposure and lighting schedule
- Tank temperature and humidity
- Genetics and sex (females often smaller)
For best care guidance, consult an exotic vet or communities like BeardedDragon.org.
General Milestones (Highly Variable):
- Hatchling: ~3-4 inches total length
- 3 Months: ~6-9 inches total length
- 6 Months: ~10-15 inches total length
- 12 Months (Adult size often reached): ~16-24 inches total length (females often smaller than males)
Once adult size is reached, visual aging is very difficult. Senior bearded dragons (perhaps 7+ years) might show signs like reduced activity, duller colors (though this can also be due to shedding or stress), or weight loss. Regular vet check-ups with a reptile-savvy vet are important.
Explore more general information about factors that affect pet lifespan.
Disclaimer: This calculator is experimental (Beta) and offers a rough estimation, especially for adult dragons.