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