What to Do With Unfertilized Bearded Dragon Eggs

Bearded dragons are beloved pet lizards that can be kept in captivity and bred. However, when it comes to breeding bearded dragons, one issue that can arise is what to do with unfertilized bearded dragon eggs. These eggs will not hatch and can cause confusion and frustration for the caretaker.

In this article, we will discuss the causes of infertile eggs, how to identify them, and options for disposing of them. We will also cover ways to prevent infertile eggs from occurring in the first place.

Causes of Infertile Bearded Dragon Eggs

There are several reasons why a female bearded dragon may lay infertile eggs. One of the most common causes is male infertility. A male bearded dragon may be infertile for a variety of reasons, including genetic defects, poor health, or lack of proper nutrition. In these cases, the male will not be able to fertilize the eggs, resulting in infertile eggs.

Another cause of infertile eggs can be improper mating techniques. If the mating male and female are not properly introduced or if the male is not physically able to mate, this can result in infertile eggs. Additionally, if the timing of the mating is not correct, this can also lead to infertile eggs.

Lastly, incorrect environmental conditions can also result in infertile eggs. Bearded dragons need specific temperatures and lighting to breed, and if these conditions are not met, the eggs may not be fertilized. It’s important to ensure that the inside of the enclosure has the correct substrate, humidity levels, and lighting to replicate the natural environment as close as possible to avoid infertile eggs.

Identification of Infertile Bearded DragonEggs

Infertile eggs can be difficult to identify, but there are a few physical characteristics that can help. Infertile eggs will typically be smaller and have a softer shell than fertile eggs. They may also appear cloudy or translucent. Additionally, infertile eggs will not have a visible embryo or blood vessels.

To confirm that an egg is infertile, you can use a process called candling. This involves holding a bright light up to the egg and looking for any signs of development. If there is no development present, the egg is likely infertile.

This is an effective technique to differentiate viable eggs from infertile eggs. It’s important to double-check and be extra keen when candling to ensure accuracy.

What to Do With Unfertilized Bearded Dragon Eggs

Once you have identified that an egg is infertile, there are several options for disposing of it. One option is to incubate and hatch the egg. While the egg will not hatch into a live bearded dragon, it can be used as an educational tool to show the hatching process.

Incubators are a great tool for this, however, it’s important to keep in mind that the eggs will require a moistening environment during incubation, so directly moistening the eggs or using a more humid medium is recommended.

Another option is to discard the egg. This is the easiest and quickest option, but it is not the most environmentally friendly.

A third option is to donate the egg to an educational institution or research facility. This will give others the opportunity to study the egg and learn more about the breeding process.

Prevention of Infertile Bearded Dragon Eggs

To prevent infertile eggs from occurring, it is important to choose a healthy, fertile male. You should also prepare the female for mating by providing her with proper nutrition and ensuring she is in good health.

Additionally, maintaining optimal environmental conditions is crucial for breeding success. It’s important to ensure that the female has reached sexual maturity and is comfortable inside the enclosure before mating.

A nesting box can also be provided for female beardies to lay their eggs in.

Another important factor to consider is the female’s femoral pores. These are located near the base of the female’s tail and should be cleaned regularly. When they are clean and clear, it is a sign that the female is ready to breed.

It’s also important to note that younger female beardies may not lay fertile eggs, and this can result in health complications. It’s important to wait until the female has reached sexual maturity before breeding.

Another way to avoid infertile eggs is to ensure that the mating male and female are both healthy and well-nourished. Proper nutrition is essential for breeding success, and it’s important to make sure that the dragons are getting the right levels of vitamins and minerals.

Lastly, it’s important to be patient and avoid rushing the breeding process. Female bearded dragons have periods of laying eggs, and it’s important to allow them to lay eggs at their own pace. This will help avoid any stress on the female and increase the chances of fertile eggs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, infertile eggs can be a frustrating issue for bearded dragon breeders. However, by having the right info, identifying the eggs, and having a plan for disposal, it is possible to manage this issue.

Furthermore, by taking steps to prevent infertile eggs from occurring, such as choosing a healthy male, preparing the female, and maintaining optimal environmental conditions, you can increase your chances of successful breeding.

It’s also important to ensure that the female has reached sexual maturity and to wait for the female to lay eggs at their own pace. With proper care and attention, you can help ensure that the eggs your dragons lay are fertile and healthy.