What does it mean when a bearded dragon gapes?
When a bearded dragon reaches its thermal maximum, it will often sit with its mouth open. This behavior, called gaping, shows that the lizard is at its optimal temperature for basking. This gaping will allow a bearded dragon to dissipate extra body heat. Open mouth basking is a normal behavior in bearded dragons.
Do bearded dragons get sluggish when shedding?
It is normal for a bearded dragon to show signs of lethargy when shedding. This is because shedding requires a significant amount of energy. Removing old skin requires them to rub up against various surfaces in order to peel it off. He will be less active in his enclosure a few days before and after his shed.
Why is my bearded dragon not moving its back legs?
Another possible reason why your bearded dragon is not moving its front or back legs is because of impaction. Your bearded dragon might become impacted with food (feeder insects or salad pieces that are too large), substrate (loose substrate such as sand, pebbles, coco fiber, shells) and other small objects.
What should I do if my bearded dragon is acting lazy?
If your bearded dragon is acting a bit sluggish make sure to check your lighting. You should provide full-spectrum lighting via a fluorescent tube, compact fluorescent, or Mercury Vapor bulb for at least 12 hours per day. The bulb should be placed within 12 inches of the bearded dragon unless you use Mercury Vapor, which can be a bit farther away.
What does it mean when a bearded dragon is lethargic?
Lethargic can mean that the bearded dragon doesn’t move much at all, stays in one location for days and days, and acts very weak and unresponsive. A bearded dragon acting lethargic could be a serious sign of a possible health issue.
How often can a bearded dragon wake up from a nap?
If brumation is beginning, your bearded dragon can sleep for days or even weeks at a time and its appetite may drastically slow down or even stop. You may be able to wake your bearded dragon up every few days for food and a bath, but each beardie is different.
Is it normal for a bearded dragon to be lazy?
One of the most common occurrences many owners face is when their bearded dragon acts lazy or lethargic. This can be a normal behavior during certain times of the year, or can be a sign of a serious health condition for many bearded dragons. We will go over some things to look for when a bearded dragon acts lazy or lethargic.
What causes a bearded dragon to stop eating?
Read all about reasons why bearded dragons might stop eating here. If your bearded dragon is panting a lot (in general panting is fine when a bearded dragon is basking), trying to escape the tank and digging, then it might be too hot. Extreme heat will cause overheating, stroke and death.
What happens when the temperature of a bearded dragon goes down?
Low temperatures can cause a loss of appetite and activity levels can drop. Make sure to use high quality thermometers at each end of the terrarium (one in the basking area and one in the cooler area) so you can monitor temperatures. For more information on proper temperatures depending on the age of the bearded dragon please read our Care Sheet.
What should I do if my bearded dragon is acting lethargic?
A mercury vapor bulb can be used to supply both radiant heat and UV radiation. If temperatures are in the correct range for the age of your bearded dragon, and it’s not the right time of year for brumation to occur, and your bearded dragon is still acting lethargic you may need to seek the advice of a reptile veterinarian. Additional Reading…
