How Far Can Bearded Dragons Fall?

Bearded dragons, with their distinctive appearance and docile nature, are among the most popular pet reptiles. They are friendly and easy to care for, making them ideal for both beginners and reptile enthusiasts. However, one of the common concerns that many pet owners have is about the safety limits of their bearded dragons, especially when it comes to falling.

So, how far can a bearded dragon fall without getting hurt? The answer is that it depends. There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this because the impact of a fall varies depending on several factors, including the height of the fall, the age and overall health of the dragon, and the surface they land on.

Factors Affecting the Safety Limit of Bearded Dragons

Here are some of the most important factors that may affect how safe a particular bearded dragon is from injuries after a fall.

Age

As with many animals, younger bearded dragons tend to be more resilient than older ones. Young dragons may be able to survive falls of several feet without damage while older ones may be more fragile.

Overall Health

The health of the bearded dragon can also affect how safe it is from a fall. For instance, a dragon that is malnourished or dehydrated may be more vulnerable to injuries because its bones are weaker, making them more susceptible to fractures.

Landing Surface

The surface that the dragon lands on is also an essential factor to consider. A fall onto a hard surface such as concrete or tile is more likely to result in serious damage than a fall onto a softer, more forgiving surface like sand or dirt.

Common Causes of Bearded Dragon Falls

Here are some of the most common reasons why bearded dragons might fall, and some tips on how to prevent these falls from happening.

Incorrect handling

One of the most common causes of bearded dragon falls is improper handling. New pet owners may not yet be familiar with how to handle and carry bearded dragons correctly, especially if they are not used to handling reptiles. Carrying a bearded dragon too high or too loosely can lead to falls, so it’s critical to learn the proper techniques for handling your pet.

Poorly secured cages

Another common cause of bearded dragon falls is poorly secured cages. Bearded dragons are curious and active creatures that love to explore, so if their cage is not closed correctly, they may escape and fall from significant heights. Ensure that the enclosure is secured with sturdy locks, latches, or clips to prevent the bearded dragon from escaping.

How High Is Too High?

So, how high is too high for a bearded dragon to fall without getting injured? The answer depends on several factors, as outlined earlier. However, as a general guideline, any fall from a height of more than two feet can be harmful to your pet.

If your bearded dragon falls from a height of more than two feet, they may experience injuries such as bruises, soft tissue damage, or fractures. These injuries can be severe, painful, and require immediate medical attention.

How to Keep Your Bearded Dragon Safe from Falls

Here are some tips on how to keep your bearded dragon safe from falls:

Learn Proper Handling Techniques

Research and learn the correct techniques and methods for handling your bearded dragon safely. Avoid carrying your pet too high or too loosely, and always have support for its back and hind legs.

Create a Safe Enclosure

Ensure that the bearded dragon’s enclosure is safely secured with high-quality locks, especially if you leave the cage unattended. If you have a baby bearded dragon, keep objects out of the enclosure that might allow them to climb too high and prevent falls altogether.

Provide Soft Landing Surfaces

Consider lining the floor of the enclosure with soft, forgiving surfaces like sand or dirt to break a fall. Additionally, pet owners must avoid placing objects in the enclosure that can cause injuries, such as sharp rocks or unstable branches.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, bearded dragons are fun and easy to care for pets that are perfect for beginners. However, as with any pet, it’s essential to understand their needs and limitations to keep them safe and healthy. Falls are a common concern among pet owners, but with some basic knowledge and care, we can significantly reduce the risks and keep our beloved pets safe.