Bearded dragons are fascinating creatures that have captured the hearts of many. Their calm demeanor and quirky personalities make them popular pets. However, there may be times when you notice your bearded dragon running around like crazy. This behavior may leave you confused and concerned. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this behavior and what you can do to help your beloved pet.
If you are a bearded dragon owner, you may have noticed your pet darting around the enclosure at a rapid pace. This behavior can be alarming, but it is not uncommon. In fact, there are several reasons why your bearded dragon may be running around like crazy. From being too hot to wanting to play, we will cover it all. So, let’s dive into the fascinating world of bearded dragon behavior!
Bearded dragons are active animals and love to explore their surroundings. Running around like crazy may be a sign of excitement, especially if they are about to be fed. However, it can also indicate stress or discomfort caused by improper lighting, temperature, or housing conditions. Make sure to provide your bearded dragon with a spacious and comfortable enclosure, proper lighting, and a temperature range of 95-105°F to ensure their well-being.
Why is My Bearded Dragon Running Around Like Crazy?
Bearded dragons are fascinating creatures that make excellent pets. They are docile, friendly, and easy to care for. However, if you have owned a bearded dragon, you may have noticed that they sometimes run around like crazy. This behavior can be amusing to watch, but it can also be concerning. In this article, we will explore the reasons why bearded dragons run around like crazy and what you can do to help them.
Reason 1: Exercise and Play
Bearded dragons are active creatures that require exercise and playtime to stay healthy. Running around like crazy may be a sign that your bearded dragon needs more physical activity. Bearded dragons love to explore their surroundings, so providing them with a stimulating environment can encourage this behavior.
To create a stimulating environment, you can provide your bearded dragon with items such as branches, rocks, and tunnels to climb and explore. You can also create a play area for your bearded dragon outside of its enclosure. Just be sure to supervise your bearded dragon while it is outside of its enclosure to prevent any accidents.
Reason 2: Mating Behavior
If you have a male and female bearded dragon, running around like crazy may be a sign of mating behavior. Male bearded dragons will often chase female bearded dragons around in an attempt to mate. This behavior is completely normal but can be disruptive if you keep the two bearded dragons in the same enclosure.
To prevent this behavior, you should keep male and female bearded dragons in separate enclosures. If you do not plan on breeding your bearded dragons, it is recommended that you have them both spayed or neutered to prevent any unwanted mating behavior.
Reason 3: Stress or Anxiety
Bearded dragons can experience stress and anxiety just like humans. Running around like crazy may be a sign that your bearded dragon is feeling stressed or anxious. Common causes of stress and anxiety in bearded dragons include changes in their environment, loud noises, and handling.
To reduce stress and anxiety in your bearded dragon, you should provide it with a quiet and stable environment. Avoid making sudden loud noises or movements around your bearded dragon. You should also limit handling to short periods of time until your bearded dragon becomes more comfortable with you.
Reason 4: Hunger or Thirst
Running around like crazy may be a sign that your bearded dragon is hungry or thirsty. Bearded dragons require a balanced diet of vegetables and insects to stay healthy. If your bearded dragon is not getting enough food or water, it may become restless and agitated.
To ensure that your bearded dragon is getting enough food and water, you should provide it with fresh vegetables and insects daily. You should also provide your bearded dragon with a shallow water dish that is changed daily.
Reason 5: Health Issues
In some cases, running around like crazy may be a sign of a health issue. Bearded dragons are susceptible to a variety of health issues, including metabolic bone disease, impaction, and respiratory infections. If your bearded dragon is exhibiting other symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or difficulty breathing, it may be experiencing a health issue.
If you suspect that your bearded dragon is experiencing a health issue, you should take it to a veterinarian that specializes in reptiles. The veterinarian can perform a physical exam and recommend any necessary treatments.
Reason 6: Territorial Behavior
Bearded dragons are territorial creatures that may exhibit aggressive behavior towards other bearded dragons. Running around like crazy may be a sign that your bearded dragon is trying to establish its territory or protect its food or water.
To prevent territorial behavior, you should keep bearded dragons in separate enclosures. If you do have multiple bearded dragons, you should provide them with separate food and water dishes to prevent competition.
Reason 7: Environmental Factors
Environmental factors such as temperature, lighting, and humidity can affect the behavior of bearded dragons. Running around like crazy may be a sign that your bearded dragon is too hot or too cold, or that the lighting or humidity in its enclosure is not optimal.
To ensure that your bearded dragon is comfortable, you should provide it with a temperature gradient in its enclosure. The basking area should be around 100-110°F, while the cool side should be around 80-85°F. You should also provide your bearded dragon with UVB lighting and maintain a humidity level of around 30-40%.
Reason 8: Attention Seeking
Bearded dragons are social creatures that enjoy attention from their owners. Running around like crazy may be a sign that your bearded dragon is seeking attention or interaction.
To provide your bearded dragon with the attention it needs, you should handle it daily and interact with it in its enclosure. You can also provide your bearded dragon with toys and other items to play with.
Reason 9: Shedding
Bearded dragons shed their skin periodically, which can cause them to become restless and agitated. Running around like crazy may be a sign that your bearded dragon is in the process of shedding.
To help your bearded dragon through the shedding process, you should provide it with a moist hide box. This will help to soften the old skin and make it easier to shed.
Reason 10: Aging
As bearded dragons age, their behavior may change. Running around like crazy may be a sign that your bearded dragon is experiencing age-related changes such as increased activity or restlessness.
To help your aging bearded dragon, you should provide it with a comfortable and stable environment. You should also provide it with a balanced diet and regular veterinary checkups to ensure that it remains healthy.
In conclusion, running around like crazy may be a sign of a variety of behaviors and health issues in bearded dragons. By understanding the reasons behind this behavior, you can provide your bearded dragon with the care and attention it needs to thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bearded dragons are fascinating creatures that make great pets. However, sometimes they may exhibit strange behavior that can be concerning to their owners. If you find that your bearded dragon is running around like crazy, there are a few things you should know. Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about this behavior.
Why is my bearded dragon running around like crazy?
There are a number of reasons why your bearded dragon might be running around like crazy. One possible explanation is that it is simply trying to burn off excess energy. Bearded dragons are active creatures and need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. If your dragon is not getting enough exercise, it may become restless and start running around in its enclosure.
Another possible explanation is that your bearded dragon is feeling stressed or anxious. This can be caused by a number of factors, including a lack of hiding spots in its enclosure, too much noise or activity around its tank, or a change in its diet or environment. If you suspect that your dragon is feeling stressed, try to identify and eliminate the source of its anxiety.
Is my bearded dragon in pain when it runs around like crazy?
If your bearded dragon is running around like crazy, it is unlikely that it is in pain. In fact, bearded dragons are known for their high pain tolerance and may not show any signs of discomfort even when they are injured or sick. However, if your dragon is exhibiting other symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or difficulty breathing, it may be experiencing pain or illness and you should consult a veterinarian.
It is important to note that while running around like crazy is not a sign of pain, it can be a sign of stress or discomfort. If your bearded dragon is exhibiting this behavior, it is important to identify and address the underlying cause.
How can I help my bearded dragon when it runs around like crazy?
If your bearded dragon is running around like crazy, there are a few things you can do to help. First, make sure that your dragon is getting enough exercise and enrichment in its enclosure. This can include providing climbing structures, hiding spots, and toys to keep your dragon active and engaged.
You should also ensure that your dragon’s enclosure is set up properly and that it has the right temperature, lighting, and humidity levels. A comfortable and well-adjusted environment can go a long way in reducing stress and anxiety in your bearded dragon.
When should I be concerned about my bearded dragon running around like crazy?
While running around like crazy is not necessarily a cause for concern in bearded dragons, there are some situations where it may be a sign of a more serious problem. If your dragon is running around in circles, banging its head against the walls of its enclosure, or exhibiting other bizarre and repetitive behaviors, it may be experiencing neurological issues or other health problems.
If you notice any unusual behavior in your bearded dragon, it is always best to err on the side of caution and consult a veterinarian. A qualified reptile veterinarian can help diagnose and treat any underlying health issues and ensure that your dragon stays healthy and happy.
What are some other signs of stress in bearded dragons?
Running around like crazy is just one of many signs that your bearded dragon may be feeling stressed or anxious. Other common signs of stress in bearded dragons include hiding for long periods of time, refusing to eat, displaying aggressive behavior, or showing a lack of interest in its environment. If you notice any of these symptoms in your bearded dragon, it is important to address the underlying cause and make adjustments to its environment or routine as needed.
By paying attention to your bearded dragon’s behavior and providing it with the right care and attention, you can help ensure that it stays healthy and happy for years to come.
Bearded Dragon Comes Running When His Mom Calls Him | The Dodo Soulmates
In conclusion, it is normal for your bearded dragon to run around like crazy at times. It is a natural behavior that they exhibit when they are excited or stimulated. However, if you notice this behavior persisting for long periods or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it is best to consult a veterinarian.
To help your bearded dragon calm down and reduce their hyperactivity, you can provide them with a comfortable and spacious enclosure, proper lighting, and a balanced diet. Additionally, spending time with your pet and providing them with mental stimulation and enrichment can help them relax and feel content.
Overall, understanding your bearded dragon’s behavior and needs is crucial to ensure their health and happiness. With proper care and attention, your pet will thrive and be a joy to have around.