What type of behavior does a bearded dragon display?


Quick Answer

Bearded dragons display different behaviors depending on the circumstances surrounding them. Frightened bearded dragons often puff out their beards, gape their mouths and flatten their bodies to dissuade potential predators. Thirsty bearded dragons lower their heads, flatten their backs, and repeatedly open and close their mouths when sprayed with water.

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What type of behavior does a bearded dragon display?
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Full Answer

Bearded dragons exhibit a variety of social behaviors. Dominant animals tend to select the highest perch in the cage. When they notice subordinate bearded dragons, they initiate a series of head bobs. If the subordinate lizard seeks to challenge the dominant lizard, he responds with a series of head bobs of his own, which usually instigates a fight. Alternatively, if the subordinate bearded dragon doesn't want to challenge the dominant lizard, he waves one or both of his arms in a circular motion.

Hungry bearded dragons do not actively seek prey; instead, they remain still until prey walks by them. When they think the prey is close enough, they move towards it and grab it with their mouths, particularly larger prey. Sometimes they use their tongue to capture small insects.

Female bearded dragons that contain eggs exhibit digging behaviors when the time for deposition approaches. If they experience egg-laying difficulties, they may look panicked and pace throughout the cage.

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