The thought of your bearded dragon’s eggs being dead is heartbreaking, but it’s important for you as a reptile owner to understand how to tell if your bearded dragon eggs are dead. Being able to identify dead eggs can help you avoid wasting time and resources on eggs that will never hatch. You can also keep an eye out for signs of infection or other health issues that could be affecting your beardie’s eggs.
In this article, we’ll discuss what to look for when determining whether bearded dragon eggs are dead, how to tell if they’re alive, and what to do if you find that some of your eggs are dead. We’ll also take a look at some of the causes of egg mortality and answer some frequently asked questions about bearded dragon eggs.
What to Look Out For When Deciding if Bearded Dragon Eggs are Dead
The first step in determining whether your bearded dragon eggs are dead is to examine the eggs closely. Dead eggs will usually look different than living eggs, and you may be able to tell that they are dead just by looking at them.
If the egg has a cracked shell, it could be dead or in the process of dying. You may also see discoloration on the eggs, which is a sign that the egg is no longer viable. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to remove the eggs from the incubator to prevent the spread of any possible infection.
Another way to tell if an egg is dead is to gently squeeze it. If the egg feels soft or squishy, it is likely dead. You can also try to shake the egg. If you hear a sloshing sound, it means that liquid has leaked out and the egg is likely dead.
How to Tell if Bearded Dragon Eggs are Alive
If you’re not sure whether your bearded dragon eggs are alive, there are a few things you can do to determine if they are. The first is to check the eggs for signs of movement. If you see any twitching, the egg is likely alive. You can also check the egg’s temperature. If it feels warm, the egg is likely alive.
You can also try candling the eggs. This is a method of checking the egg’s contents by placing a light source behind it and examining the contents of the egg. If you see veins, yolk, and other signs of life, the egg is likely alive.
Causes of Egg Mortality
There are a few potential causes of egg mortality in bearded dragons. One of the most common is improper incubation. If your eggs are not incubated at the right temperature for the right amount of time, they may not hatch.
Improper nutrition can also lead to egg mortality. If your bearded dragon isn’t getting enough calcium or other essential nutrients, the eggs may not develop properly. Additionally, if your beardie is too young or too old, the eggs may not hatch.
What to Do if You Find Dead Bearded Dragon Eggs
If you find that some of your bearded dragon eggs are dead, it’s important to take action quickly. First, you should remove the eggs from the incubator. This will help to prevent the spread of any infection.
Next, you should disinfect the incubator and any other equipment that was used in the incubation process. This will help to ensure that any remaining eggs have the best chance of hatching.
Finally, keep a close eye on the remaining eggs and monitor them for any signs of infection. If you notice any signs of infection, you should remove the eggs from the incubator and get them treated immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bearded Dragon Eggs
How long does it take for bearded dragon eggs to hatch?
It usually takes between 45-60 days for bearded dragon eggs to hatch. However, this can vary depending on the species of bearded dragon and the temperature of the incubator.
How many eggs do bearded dragons lay?
Bearded dragons usually lay between 8-20 eggs at a time. However, this can vary based on the size of the female and the number of males she has mated with.
Do bearded dragons lay eggs without mating?
Yes, it is possible for bearded dragons to lay eggs without mating. This is known as parthenogenesis and is often caused by stress or other environmental factors.
Can bearded dragon eggs be frozen?
No, bearded dragon eggs should not be frozen. Freezing can damage the eggs and make them unable to hatch.
What is the best temperature for incubating bearded dragon eggs?
The optimal temperature for incubating bearded dragon eggs is between 80-90°F (27-32°C). It is important to maintain a consistent temperature in order to give the eggs the best chance of hatching.
Conclusion
Knowing how to tell if bearded dragon eggs are dead is an important part of being a reptile owner. By paying close attention to your eggs and understanding the signs of a dead egg, you can help ensure that your eggs have the best chance of hatching. Additionally, understanding the causes of egg mortality and taking steps to prevent it can help to ensure that your bearded dragon eggs are healthy and viable.
