What to Expect in Your Baby Bearded Dragon's First 30 Days

Bringing home a baby bearded dragon is exciting, but their first 30 days are crucial for their growth and health. Here’s what to expect and how to provide the best care during this important period.

Initial Setup and Adjustment

Before bringing your baby bearded dragon home, ensure you have a properly set up enclosure.

Essential Items:

• Tank Size: At least a 20-gallon tank for babies.
• Heating: Provide a basking spot at 100°F to 110°F and a cooler area around 75°F to 85°F.
• UVB Lighting: Ensure 12-14 hours of UVB exposure daily to aid digestion and calcium absorption.
• Substrate: Use safe options like reptile carpet, paper towels, or tiles to prevent impaction.

Adjustment Period

Your baby dragon may seem shy or inactive at first. It’s normal for them to take a few days to adjust to their new environment. Provide hiding spots to help them feel secure.

Feeding Habits and Growth

Baby bearded dragons have voracious appetites and rapid growth rates. During the first 30 days, you’ll notice significant changes in their size and appetite.

Feeding Guidelines:

• Frequency: Offer food 2-3 times per day.
• Diet: About 80% insects (crickets, dubia roaches) and 20% vegetables (collard greens, carrots, squash).
• Calcium Dusting: Dust insects with calcium powder daily to support healthy bone growth.

Expect your baby dragon to double or even triple in size within the first month if fed properly.

Behavior and Handling

During the first month, your dragon may be skittish. Patience is key.

Tips for Safe Handling:

• Start with short, gentle handling sessions.
• Let your dragon get used to your hand being in their enclosure.
• Never grab them from above, as it can be intimidating.

Building trust takes time but is essential for a healthy, confident bearded dragon.

Health Monitoring

Keeping an eye on your dragon’s health during the first 30 days is crucial.

Signs of Good Health:

• Bright, alert eyes
• Regular appetite
• Active movement

Red Flags to Watch For:

• Lethargy or lack of appetite
• Swelling or lumps
• Runny or discolored stool

Consult a vet specializing in reptiles if you notice anything concerning.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Keeping the enclosure clean is essential for your baby dragon’s health.

Weekly Tasks:

• Spot clean daily to remove uneaten food and waste.
• Replace substrate as needed.
• Disinfect enclosure items every couple of weeks.

A clean environment helps prevent bacterial infections and stress.

Your baby bearded dragon’s first 30 days are all about establishing routines and building trust. Provide a safe, clean, and properly heated environment, and you’ll be well on your way to raising a healthy, happy dragon. Enjoy the journey!

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Source: LORD ELION

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