They store nutrients in huge abdominal fat bodies, then dig into the ground and hibernate for long periods during unfavorable times. Female bearded dragons lay clutches of 15-25 eggs. The hatchlings grow rapidly and are usually 5 inches long by the end of their first month. There is both coloration and size variation among different races of bearded dragons. Coloration varies from a uniform tan to chocolate brown, with different hues on the head, throat, back and tail.
Males tend to develop much broader heads and a larger black beard.
Both sexes engage in stereotypical arm waving behavior to appease more dominant animals. This animal is becoming one of the most popular lizards in the pet trade. One of the good qualities which makes bearded dragons such an appealing pet lizard is that with minimal training, they will sit calmly for moderate periods of time in your hand or on your shoulder. Dragons are very mellow lizards, but if provoked they will exhibit an open-mouthed threat display. If this display is ignored, a bite may follow.