Introduction

Bearded dragons are one of the most popular reptile pets out there, and for good reason. They are friendly, easy to care for, and make great companions. However, like any pet, they can exhibit certain behaviors that might concern you as an owner. One of these behaviors is bearded dragon flaring.

What is Bearded Dragon Flaring?

Bearded dragon flaring is a behavior that involves the puffing up and blackening of the skin under a bearded dragon’s chin. This chin-strap of skin is known as the “beard,” and when a bearded dragon is feeling threatened or aggressive, it will puff up its beard and open its mouth to display its teeth.

Flaring is a natural behavior for bearded dragons and is usually nothing to worry about. However, if your bearded dragon is flaring excessively, it might be a sign that something is wrong.

Why Do Bearded Dragons Flare?

Bearded dragons usually flare for one of three reasons: fear, aggression, or mating behavior.

• Fear: If your bearded dragon feels threatened or scared, it will flare to make itself appear bigger and scarier to potential predators.
• Aggression: Males especially may flare when trying to establish dominance over other males or trying to attract a female mate.
• Mating Behavior: During mating rituals, both males and females may flare to display their interest and readiness to mate.

When Should You Worry About Bearded Dragon Flaring?

As mentioned earlier, mild flaring is nothing to worry about. However, if your bearded dragon is flaring excessively or constantly, it might be a sign that something is wrong.

• Stress: If your bearded dragon is constantly flaring, it might be a sign that it is under stress. Make sure your bearded dragon’s enclosure is the right size, temperature, and humidity, and that it has plenty of hiding spots and things to do.
• Illness: Bearded dragons will sometimes flare when they are sick or in pain. If you suspect your bearded dragon might be ill, take it to the vet as soon as possible.
• Aggression: If your bearded dragon is excessively aggressive and flaring, it might be a sign that it is not properly socialized or is in pain.

What to Do About Bearded Dragon Flaring?

If your bearded dragon is flaring excessively or constantly, it is important to figure out why and take the appropriate action. Here are a few things you can do to help your bearded dragon feel more comfortable and less stressed:

• Check Your Enclosure: Make sure your bearded dragon’s enclosure is the appropriate size and has the right temperature and humidity. Make sure your bearded dragon has plenty of hiding spots and things to do.
• Check for Illness: Take your bearded dragon to the vet if you suspect it might be sick or in pain.
• Socialize Your Bearded Dragon: Bearded dragons are social animals and need interaction with their owners to feel comfortable around people.
• Avoid Overhandling: While bearded dragons enjoy human interaction, they can become stressed if handled too much or too roughly.
• Be Patient: If your bearded dragon is flaring due to fear or aggression, it may take time for it to feel comfortable around you or other bearded dragons.

Conclusion

Bearded dragon flaring is a natural behavior that can sometimes indicate a problem with your pet’s health or living environment. If your bearded dragon is flaring excessively or constantly, it is important to figure out why and take the appropriate action. By following the tips in this post, you can help your bearded dragon feel more comfortable and less stressed.