Incubating bearded dragons eggs is an important part of their breeding process, and with the right materials and knowledge, it can be a rewarding experience.
Proper incubation is essential for the healthy development of bearded dragon eggs and the successful hatching of baby dragons.
In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to incubate bearded dragon eggs, covering everything from gathering supplies to hatching the eggs.
Gathering Supplies for Incubation
Before you start incubating bearded dragon eggs, you will need to gather the necessary supplies. The most important items you will need are:
- An Incubator
- A temperature and humidity gauge
- Substrate
- Egg container or Tray
1. An incubator
You can use either a homemade or store-bought incubator for bearded dragon eggs. Make sure to choose an incubator that is large enough to hold all of your eggs and has the necessary temperature and humidity controls.
2. A temperature and humidity gauge
It is crucial to maintain the correct temperature and humidity levels during incubation. A temperature and humidity gauge will help you monitor and adjust these levels as needed.
3. Substrate
You will need a substrate to hold the eggs and help maintain the correct humidity levels. Suitable options include vermiculite and coconut coir.
4. Egg containers or trays
You will need a container or tray to hold the eggs during incubation. Make sure to choose a container or tray that is large enough to hold all of your eggs and is easy to clean.
Preparing the Incubator
Once you have gathered all of your supplies, it’s time to set up the incubator. Follow these steps to prepare the incubator for your bearded dragon eggs:
1. Set the temperature
Bearded dragon eggs need to be incubated at a temperature of around 88-90 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a thermometer to check the temperature of the incubator and adjust it as needed.
2. Maintain the humidity
The relative humidity in the incubator should be kept at around 60-70% during incubation. You can use a hygrometer to monitor the humidity levels and add water to the substrate as needed to maintain the correct humidity.
3. Clean and sterilize the incubator
Before you place the eggs in the incubator, make sure to thoroughly clean and sterilize it. This will help prevent the eggs from becoming contaminated.
Laying the Eggs in Incubator
Once the incubator is set up and ready to go, it’s time to lay the eggs. Follow these steps to properly lay the eggs:
1. Choose a suitable substrate
Choose a substrate that will help maintain the correct humidity levels and provide a comfortable environment for the eggs. As mentioned earlier, vermiculite and coconut coir are both good options.
2. Gently place the eggs in the container or tray
Handling the eggs gently is important to prevent damage. Use a spoon or small shovel to gently place the eggs in the container or tray.
3. Label the eggs
It is a good idea to label the eggs with the date and any other relevant information. This will help you keep track of their progress and identify any issues that may arise.
Incubating the Eggs
Once the eggs are laid, it’s time to begin the incubation process. Here are some key things to remember during this stage:
1. Check the temperature and humidity daily
It is important to regularly check the temperature and humidity levels to ensure that they are within the correct range. Use a thermometer and hygrometer to take readings and adjust the incubator as needed.
2. Turn the eggs every other day
Turning the eggs every other day helps ensure that they develop evenly.
3. Add water to the substrate as needed
The substrate should be kept moist, but not wet, to maintain the correct humidity levels. Add water to the substrate as needed to keep it at the proper moisture level.
4. Monitor for spoilage or fungus growth
It is important to regularly check the eggs for any signs of spoilage or fungus growth. If you notice any issues, remove the affected eggs immediately to prevent the problem from spreading.
Hatching the Eggs
After about 60-80 days of incubation, your eggs should be ready to hatch. Bearded dragon eggs typically hatch on their own, so you should not need to assist the hatching process unless it is absolutely necessary. When the eggs hatch, carefully transfer the hatchlings to a clean enclosure.
Conclusion
Incubating bearded dragon eggs requires careful attention to temperature, humidity, and egg care. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can successfully hatch healthy baby bearded dragons. Remember to check the temperature and humidity levels regularly, turn the eggs every other day, and monitor for any signs of spoilage or fungus growth. With proper incubation, you can enjoy the reward of raising and caring for these fascinating pets.
