Many pet owners today are choosing bearded dragons as their pets. These reptiles are friendly, affectionate, and natural omnivores, able to eat various foods like nuts. One common concern among pet owners is when their bearded dragons start bobbing their heads. This head movement involves an up-and-down motion, and many owners wonder what it means. They often worry whether it’s a sign of health issues or just normal behavior. Understanding the cause of head bobbing is important, but it’s also essential to know that, in most cases, it is a typical behavior and doesn’t necessarily require a vet visit.
4 Reasons Why Do Bearded Dragons Bob Their Head
1: Feeling Territorial
Bearded dragons bob their heads as a sign of territorial dominance. This behavior often occurs when they feel threatened or scared. It’s important to note that head bobbing is common in these reptiles. Pet owners should never house two bearded dragons together to avoid stress or aggression. Additionally, mixing other animals with bearded dragons is not recommended.
2: Wants to Mate
Bearded dragons often bob their heads as part of their mating behavior. Male bearded dragons do this to attract females. In response, female bearded dragons also bob their heads to signal acceptance. However, female head bobbing is a modified version of the male’s. This behavior typically occurs during the breeding season for both sexes.
3: Submitting the Signal
Bearded dragons use head bobs to communicate with each other. Larger bearded dragons often perform a quick, short head bob toward smaller ones. In response, the smaller bearded dragons mimic the same movement. This behavior helps them send signals and maintain communication.
4: Acknowledgment of the Other Animals
When bearded dragons bob their heads, it’s a way of acknowledging other animals. This type of headbob is not aggressive. Sometimes, it serves as a welcoming gesture.
What Causes Them to Bob Their Heads While Sleeping?
Bearded dragons need a dark, undisturbed space and a comfortable spot to sleep well. Without these conditions, they can become frustrated and stressed. They may show this by moving their heads up and down. While head bobbing during sleep is uncommon, it is not something for pet owners to worry about. In addition to head movements, bearded dragons may also jump while sleeping.
Is Frequent Head Bobbing Something to be Worried About?
It can be concerning when your bearded dragon bobs its head. As a pet owner, it’s natural to feel worried when you see this behavior. However, there is no need for concern or a vet visit.
Head-bobbing is a form of communication for bearded dragons. When they do this, they may be trying to signal that they want something or are feeling discomfort. This behavior is entirely normal and healthy for them.
Why Does My Bearded Dragon Bob it’s Head at Other Pets?
If your pet bearded dragon moves its head up and down at other pets, it could be for several reasons. One common cause is dominance. The bearded dragon may signal the different animals to stay out of its territory. Head bobbing is sometimes a form of greeting or welcoming other pets. Alternatively, if your bearded dragon is scared, it may bob its head as a defensive behavior.
How to Stop or Reduce Head Bobbing in Bearded Dragons?
You usually don’t need to worry when your bearded dragon bobs its head, as this behavior is typical. However, there are other reasons for head bobbing. Stress is one of the most important factors to consider. Stress can lead to health issues such as diarrhea and loss of appetite. To help your pet, give them a warm bath or take them to the vet.
False Head Bobbing Due to Seizures Or Fitting
Seizures and fitting are common in bearded dragons. These episodes usually occur due to calcium deficiency and a lack of full-spectrum light, which includes UVB. Ensuring proper temperature and a balanced diet can help reduce these issues. If your bearded dragon begins to bob its head, it may indicate a problem, and it’s essential to visit a vet for a proper check-up.
Conclusion
Bearded dragons bob their heads for several reasons. Male bearded dragons often do this to attract females, while females may bob their heads in response to accept a male’s proposal. Additionally, bearded dragons may bob their heads up and down when they feel threatened or scared.
FAQs
Why do female beardies bob their heads?
During the breeding season, male bearded dragons perform displays to attract females. To signal acceptance of the courtship, female bearded dragons bob their heads.
Why do baby bearded dragons bob their heads?
Pet baby bearded dragons often bob their heads when they feel unsafe or scared.
Is the head bobbing dangerously?
Head-bobbing is a typical behavior in bearded dragons. It involves moving the head up and down quickly.
Why does my bearded dragon bob its head at toys?
When bearded dragons bob their heads upon seeing toys, it indicates they are frightened by the toy.