How Long Do Bearded Dragons Live?
Bearded dragons are native to Australia, and where introduced as pets to the United States in the 1990s. They’re known for their non-aggressive nature. Their non-aggressive nature, combined with ease of handling, only helped them gain popularity as pets. Now they can be found in every pet store across the United States, unimaginable only 25 years ago.
So let’s take a look at how long captive bearded dragons live compared to their wild counterparts.
Bearded Dragon Lifespan in the Wild
Anyone, who has ever watched a National Geographic Show, knows nature can be cruel. Ever see the wildebeest get eaten by the lion? Bearded dragons are the wildebeest of Australia. They’re close to the bottom of the food chain.
From the time they hatch, they have to be on the lookout for spiders, ants, beetles, these are just a few of the predators, for younger bearded dragons.
Other predators are; Wedge-tailed Eagle, Whistling Kite, and Brown Falcon, Quolls, Lace Monitor, Perentie, and Yellow-spotted Monitor. The list could go on and on. Basically, there is no shortage of animals that have them as a menu item.
Wild bearded dragons are also susceptible to disease and parasites, which can be fatal.
Bearded dragon lay around 15-30 eggs at a time, around 1-2 clutches a year in the wild. At best, you’ll only have a couple out of each clutch that makes it to adulthood.
All in all, a bearded dragon’s life in the wild is anything but easy. However, they can live up to 8 years in the wild, beyond that and there extremely lucky.
Bearded Dragon Lifespan in Captivity
After getting a Bearded dragon it’s only natural to wonder, “How long do bearded dragons live?”
The good new is that captive bearded dragons outlive their wild counterparts.
Gender will play a role in their life expectancy. Males tend to have a longer lifespan than females.
Just 20 years ago the life expectancy was 7 – 9 years in captivity. With more information readily available, and a quick search away, “Thanks to modern technology.” You can quickly find out the proper setup, even what is impaction. It’s not uncommon for them to live for 10 – 13 years.
Also Read: Why do bearded dragons make great pets?
Essential for Your Bearded Dragons Health
Diet – Adult bearded dragons need a proper diet, (adults 80% greens and 20% protein) Lack of proper diet will lead to an unhealthy overweight bearded dragon
Calcium – All bearded dragons need a calcium supplement
Vitamins – All bearded dragons need vitamins
Enclosure – Having the proper set up is a must
Vet – Learn where the nearest vet is
With the practice of good husbandry, you will guarantee your bearded dragon will live a long and healthy life.
Oldest Bearded Dragon Recorded
Guinness World Records lists the oldest bearded dragon as having lived 18 years and 237 days. Others have reported having bearded dragons live for 18 even 19 years, although not verifiable. What’s the secret to longevity? That’s the million-dollar question. Maybe, it’s diet or practicing good husbandry. Or maybe some just won the life lotto. In the end, practicing good husbandry will ensure your bearded dragon has the healthiest life possible.
I would love to hear your thoughts, questions in the comments below.
