Female beardies have a single bulge in the center of their tail (in the same location as the male). Make sure to handle your bearded dragon with care: never grab the tip of the tail–it can break and hurt your beardie.

Female bearded dragons have one v-shaped mound in the center of their tail. If the bulges are hard to see, gently turn your bearded dragon at different angles to look for any shadowing.

In the palm of your hand, gently support the back of your beardie so they are belly-side up. If there are several circles scattered across the back thighs, you have a male beardie. [4] X Research source Femoral pores fully develop when your beardie reaches adulthood (12 months), so avoid using this method for baby beardies. [5] X Research source If you’re unsure of the size of your beardie’s femoral pores, compare your beardie with an online photo of a male bearded dragon’s femoral pores.

If you don’t have two bearded dragons, compare your beardie with a photo of the cloacal opening online.

When encountering males, female beardies often adopt a submissive pose by waving their arms in a circle, but some females aren’t afraid to engage in more aggressive behavior. [11] X Research source Both males and females have black beards (throat pouches), but male beardies are more likely to darken their beard during courtship to show dominance. [12] X Research source Beardies act aggressively in response to stress but get veterinary care if you notice your pet is behaving abnormally.

Female beardies are known to have a more narrow and slender tail than males. Bearded dragons can grow up to 24 inches, with their tail taking up half their length. [14] X Research source