Many bearded dragon owners report their pets scratching at the tank glass, a behaviour known as glass surfing or glass dancing. It’s common for owners to wonder, “Why is my bearded dragon scratching at the glass?” This is normal behaviour for bearded dragons.
Let’s explore the reasons behind this scratching.
What is Glass Surfing in Bearded Dragons?
Bearded dragons often press their hind legs against the glass and paddle them, a behaviour known as glass surfing or glass dancing. This typically occurs when they are running up and down their tank, often due to stress. They may perform this behaviour when feeling unhappy or stressed, attempting to escape their tank. It’s essential to monitor your bearded dragon’s behaviour to ensure they are comfortable in their environment.
7 Reasons Why Your Bearded Dragon is Scratching at the Glass
1:The Enclosure is Small for Them
Bearded dragons thrive in an environment where they feel free. They need space to move around comfortably and maintain consistency. Sudden changes can stress them out, leading to behaviours like glass surfing, where they flail their arms and legs in an attempt to escape. To prevent this, ensure the tank has ample room for your bearded dragon.
2: Sudden Change to a New Enclosure
Bearded dragons are sensitive to changes in their environment. When introduced to a new enclosure, sudden changes can trigger a response, such as glass surfing; these reptiles struggle to adjust to new surroundings. Even small changes can cause stress for your beardie. To help them adapt, make changes slowly. Gradually introduce new objects and modify basking and cooling areas. This approach will help your beardie adjust more comfortably to the changes.
3: Feeling Cooped Up
Bearded dragons may scratch the glass when bored, trying to escape their enclosure. They can also scratch for attention. If they’ve become accustomed to their owner and aren’t getting enough interaction, they may start scratching to signal this need. Make sure to spend time with them regularly and engage in play to prevent this behaviour. Let them out of the tank to explore the house and encourage exercise by allowing them to climb.
4: They are Hungry
These intelligent reptiles will scratch the glass to get your attention when hungry or thirsty. Set a regular feeding schedule and provide them with nutritious food.
5: Scared of their Reflection
Bearded dragons are territorial and don’t tolerate other creatures or reptiles in their space. If this happens, they can become aggressive. They may react when they see their reflection in the tank glass, mistaking it for another bearded dragon. In response, they will scratch at the glass.
6: Changed in their Habitat
Bearded dragons are sensitive to changes in their environment. Even minor adjustments can cause them to react, such as scratching the glass when upset. To help them adjust, change only one thing at a time. This allows them to get used to the new setup gradually.
7: Feeling Hot or Too Cold
If you have a bearded dragon, keeping the right temperature in its tank is crucial. Bearded dragons need to thermoregulate to stay healthy. Make sure the basking area remains between 90 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit. The more fabulous area should be about 85 degrees.
7 ways to Stop Your Bearded Dragon from Scratching the Glass
As mentioned, there are several reasons why a bearded dragon scratches the glass. Now, let’s explore some practical ways to prevent this behaviour.
1: Keep Them in a Big Tank
If your bearded dragon is scratching the tank glass for a long time, observe its behaviour. Move it to a larger tank if it seems to be struggling for space or appears suffocated.
2: Try Adjusting the Lights
You can adjust the intensity of both the regular and UVB lights. Ensure the tank temperature meets the specific needs of your pet. Maintaining a temperature difference between the enclosure’s warmer and cooler basking areas is essential.
3: Take Them Out of the Tank for Sometime
Your bearded dragon might get bored in the tank, leading to scratching the glass. As an owner, make sure to give them time outside the tank. Let them roam around the house and play for a few hours to keep them happy and active.
4: Slowly Make Changes in the Tank
To help your bearded dragon adjust, slowly change the environment in the tank. Add or remove items gradually, allowing your pet time to get used to the changes. If you’re moving your beardie to a new enclosure, set it up like the old one. This will help your pet feel more comfortable and reduce stress.
5: Keep them Away from Other Reptiles
If you have more than one bearded dragon, ensure they don’t see each other. Add a background border if your bearded dragon feels stressed or scared by its reflection. Adjusting the lighting can also help minimize the reflection.
6: Clean Up the Tank
Bearded dragons require a clean habitat to stay healthy. Regularly clean their tank and remove any feces scattered throughout the enclosure.
7: Ready to Lay Eggs
If your female bearded dragon starts scratching the glass or tank, it may be a sign that she’s ready to lay eggs. In this case, preparing a lay box for her is essential.
Conclusion
If you’re wondering why your bearded dragon is scratching at the glass, it’s likely due to their difficulty adjusting to changes. Bearded dragons typically take time to get comfortable with new environments. To help them adjust, it’s important to introduce changes gradually. Give them 1 to 2 weeks to acclimate when adding new items to their tank. If, despite your efforts, the glass surfing continues or worsens, your final option should be to take your bearded dragon to the vet for a check-up.
FAQs
Could my bearded dragon be sick if they’re scratching the glass?
If your bearded dragon scratches the glass, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s sick. This behavior often indicates stress. However, it may be unwell if your bearded dragon also shows other signs, like a loss of appetite, inactivity, or lethargy.
Can class surfing hurt my bearded dragon?
You don’t need to worry. Bearded dragons won’t harm themselves by scratching. While scratching may cause some stress, it isn’t likely to lead to significant health issues.
How do you calm a bearded dragon?
Try giving it a warm, soothing bath to calm your bearded dragon. You can offer food or cover the tank with a towel to reduce sensory stimulation. Gently stroke its head with your fingers to help ease its stress.
What does it look like when bearded dragons are mad?
Bearded dragons often hiss, bite, puff up their beard, and open their mouths wide when angry or upset.