A close-up of a bearded dragon on a sandy surface. The reptile has a light brown and orange complexion with spiky scales along its head and body. Its big eyes are inquisitively looking forward, capturing the detailed texture of its skin and surroundings.

Common Bearded Dragon Behaviors

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Common Bearded Dragon Behaviours

Bearded dragons are fascinating creatures with distinct personalities and behaviours. Understanding these behaviours is crucial for any keeper to ensure the well-being and happiness of their scaly friend. In this blog post, we delve into some common bearded dragon behaviours, helping you decode what your pet might be trying to communicate.

Head Bobbing and Arm Waving

One of the most observed behaviours in bearded dragons is head bobbing and arm waving. These physical gestures are forms of communication among bearded dragons and can tell you a lot about their mood and intentions.

Head Bobbing

Head bobbing is a common bearded dragon behaviour that can mean several things, depending on the context:

  • Dominance: Males, in particular, use head bobbing to assert dominance over other dragons.
  • Mating Ritual: During breeding seasons, males will often bob their heads to attract females.
  • Submission: Interestingly, females and subservient males might also bob their heads as a sign of submission, though usually less vigorously.

Arm Waving

Arm waving is a gentler motion where a bearded dragon will raise one of its forelimbs and make a circular, waving motion. This behaviour typically signifies:

  • Submission: Much like head bobbing, arm waving is often a submissive gesture.
  • Recognition: It can be a way for bearded dragons to signal to others that they are not a threat.

Glass Surfing

Glass surfing is when a bearded dragon seems to be trying to climb the walls of its enclosure. This can appear quite concerning but usually indicates a few specific conditions that need addressing.

Potential Causes

  • Stress: Often, glass surfing is a sign of stress. This could be due to a new environment, improper temperature, or even seeing their reflection.
  • Enclosure Size: If the enclosure is too small, your bearded dragon might feel confined and attempt to escape.
  • Boredom: Lack of stimulation and enrichment can lead your dragon to engage in glass surfing as a form of entertainment.

Solutions

  • Adjust the Environment: Ensure the habitat has the correct temperature gradient and UVB lighting.
  • Increase Enclosure Size: Make sure the vivarium is adequately sized for your bearded dragon’s growth stage.
  • Provide Enrichment: Add logs, rocks, and safe plants for your dragon to explore and hide.

Colour Changes

Bearded dragons are known for their ability to change colour, a behaviour that can have multiple explanations, ranging from mood shifts to health indicators.

Stress and Mood Indicators

  • Darkening of the Beard: When stressed or feeling threatened, a bearded dragon might darken its beard area. This is a common reaction to new environments or perceived threats.
  • Bright Colours: During times of excitement or dominance (often seen in males during mating season), bearded dragons might display brighter, more vibrant colours.

Health and Temperature Regulation

  • Thermoregulation: Bearded dragons will darken their skin to absorb more heat and lighten it to reflect excess heat. Observing this can give you clues about your dragon’s comfort in its environment.
  • Health Issues: Persistent darkening or unusual colour might indicate underlying health issues, such as respiratory infections or mites. Always consult a vet if you have concerns about your bearded dragon’s health.

Conclusion

Understanding common bearded dragon behaviours can greatly enhance your ability to provide optimal care for your pet. From head bobbing and arm waving to glass surfing and colour changes, each action has its own set of meanings. Keeping an eye on these behaviours can offer invaluable insight into your bearded dragon’s well-being and happiness.

Be sure to address any drastic changes in behaviour or persistent issues by consulting with a reptile-savvy veterinarian—their expertise is essential for the health of your bearded dragon.

For more tips on bearded dragon care, check out our detailed Bearded Dragon Care Guide and other posts on our site. For further reading, ReptiFiles offers excellent, in-depth articles on bearded dragon behaviour and care.

Meta Description

Discover the common behaviours of bearded dragons, including head bobbing, arm waving, glass surfing, and colour changes. Learn what these actions mean and how to care for your pet properly.

By closely monitoring your bearded dragon’s behaviour and making informed adjustments to its habitat and routine, you’ll ensure a happy, healthy life for your scaly companion.

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Got questions or experiences to share? Leave a comment below and let’s get the discussion going!

Always remember: When in doubt, consult a vet for professional advice.