I agree with caramelbeet's advise... You really cannot overfeed, at that age, in my opinion. I fed DeziLu several times a day, as much as he would want, and he is a great success! The important thing is to provide variety, and not to feed anything too big--the space betwen the eyes is a good measure. Always, good powdered calcium with vitD, and multivitamin dusted on food. Although they do not usually love their salad at that age, it is a good idea to provide fresh greens in a separate dish, daily, just to get them used to it. Protien will be their preference, due to their fast growth rate.
Bumps: need more info, to even make a guess...photos would be very helpful, here...
Taking him out in public: depends alot on his individual temperament. When youg, they can be very jumpy and unpredictable, ,making them at risk for injury, if they are spooked. By six months old, they tend to settle down, and feel more relaxed in general. I would certainly wait until a good, solid relationship of trust has been buit up between the two of you. That way, he feels safe, when in a new situation. I began taking DeziLu out at around six months, but again, it depends on the individual personality. Try a ride in the car, first, (in a safe carrier) with no public interaction, to see how he reacts. It also helps to introduce him to visitors at home, to help him grow trusting of others.
Eggs: if he is a she, and has been in a viv with males, it is possible, but not at all likely, for her to be fertilized, yet. They do not usually reach sexual maturity until at least six months. We do have one member whose new female surprised her with eggs at four months, recently. The young female had been in a viv with both males and females in the store. She had not been exposed to any males, after purchase. That is not to be expected or the norm. I only mention it to suggest that it is not totally impossible. (but it is very unlikely). In that case, the female may have been older than the store claimed. The stores dont always know for sure when their reptiles were born, so they give us a "around about" date to work with. It does not mean they are being intentionally deceptive, just making their best guess.
Would love to see some photos of Rocco! (and environment) Not only to look at those bumps, but just because it is such a pleasure to see other beardies, ha, ha!
I am glad you found this forum, too! It is such a great place for information, and people here are so helpful. Since the stores do not provide accurate or complete info, it is extremely important to self educate. These remarkable creatures require much specialised care, but it is worth every effort. Dezi has given to me in return three years so far, of unconditional love and great snuggles every day. He is my joy! I hope for you and Rocco the same.
Dezi says, welcome Rocco!
Kimberly
