Beardie behaviors
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Transcript of Beardie behaviors
Bearded Dragon Behaviors Explained
A guide to some of the strange behaviors seen in
bearded dragons
Introduction Bearded dragons commonly display
behaviors that may seem strange. To see your bearded dragon perform these behaviors without knowing about them could be startling or worrisome. This presentation will explain why beardies act in these ways and show examples.
Behaviors Basking open mouth Beard darkening Inflated beard Arm waving Head bobbing Eye bulging
Basking Open Mouth
Basking Open Mouth Beardies will sometimes hold their
mouth open while basking. Since they don’t have sweat glands, it is a way of cooling off when they get a little too hot, similar to a dog panting. This is normal and nothing to worry about.
Beard Darkening Beardies will
sometimes darken their beard so it looks black or nearly black
It is usually a way of “showing off” or displaying a threat.
Can be a sign of stress or disease when it covers more of the body or lasts unusually long.
Inflated Beard Puffing out the
beard is a common behavior indicating an aggressive display.
It is often seen in conjunction with beard darkening and sometimes opening of the mouth.
Arm Waving Bearded dragons will
sometimes wave one of their front arms in a slow circular motion as if waving goodbye.
This behavior is thought to be an act of subordinance to more dominant beardies.
See a Video
Head Bobbing See a Video Mostly seen in males, this behavior is
a territorial display showing dominance. It is also seen in mating displays and courtship rituals.
Eye Bulging
Eye Bulging One of the more disconcerting
behaviors, the reason behind eye bulging is uncertain.
The prevailing belief is that they do it to stretch the skin around their eyes during times of shedding.
If it lasts more than an hour or so, see your vet, as it could be a sign of high blood pressure.
References Grenard, Steve. Your Happy Healthy
Pet, Bearded Dragon. Hoboken, New Jersey: Wiley Publishing, Inc., 2008.
Image Credits Title slide: www.reptiles.swelluk.com Basking Open Mouth:
www.flickriver.com Inflated beard:
www.beardeddragoncarehq.com Beard darkening, Eye Bulging and
Arm Waving: www.beardeddragon.org