The Bearded Dragon Wave: What is it and Why Do Bearded Dragons Do it?

If you are a beginner bearded dragon owner, you may have seen your pet reptile doing a strange behavior that looks like it’s waving at you. This adorable and unique behavior is called the Bearded Dragon Wave, and it’s a common behavior among bearded dragons.

As a beginner bearded dragon owner, it’s essential to understand the behavior of your pet reptile, including the Bearded Dragon Wave, to ensure its well-being and happiness. In this blog post, we will discuss in detail what the Bearded Dragon Wave is and why bearded dragons do it.

What is the Bearded Dragon Wave?

The Bearded Dragon Wave is a behavior where your pet reptile lifts one of its front legs, curls it into a fist, and then moves it up and down in a waving motion. It seems like your bearded dragon is waving at you, and it’s an adorable behavior that many pet owners love to see.

The Bearded Dragon Wave is a voluntary behavior, and it’s not a sign of aggression or submission. It’s your bearded dragon’s way of communicating with you, and it can have multiple meanings, depending on the circumstances.

Why Do Bearded Dragons Wave?

There are several reasons why bearded dragons wave, and as a beginner bearded dragon owner, it’s crucial to understand them to make sure your pet is happy and healthy.

1. Territory Assertion

In the wild, bearded dragons are territorial creatures, and they use several ways to assert their territory, including the Bearded Dragon Wave. When two bearded dragons meet, they may wave at each other as a sign of dominance, showing the other that they are the alpha.

2. Communication

Bearded dragons are social creatures, and they use different methods to communicate with each other, including the Bearded Dragon Wave. Your pet reptile may wave at you to communicate that it’s not feeling well or is hungry. It can also be a way of greeting or acknowledging your presence.

3. Courtship Ritual

When male bearded dragons court females, they may use the Bearded Dragon Wave as a courtship ritual. The male will wave at the female to get her attention and show that he’s interested in mating.

When Should You Be Concerned?

In most cases, the Bearded Dragon Wave is a normal behavior that doesn’t require any intervention. However, there are a few instances where you should be concerned and take action.

1. Aggressive Behavior

If your bearded dragon waves while it’s hissing, puffing up its beard, or showing other signs of aggressive behavior, it could indicate that it’s feeling threatened. In this case, you should separate your pet from any other bearded dragons or pets and observe it closely.

2. Health Issues

If your bearded dragon is waving excessively, it may be a sign of a health issue, such as stress, dehydration, or a respiratory illness. If you notice abnormal waving or any other unusual behaviors in your pet, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian.

Conclusion

The Bearded Dragon Wave is a unique and adorable behavior that’s common among bearded dragons. As a beginner bearded dragon owner, it’s essential to understand this behavior and its significance to ensure your pet’s well-being and happiness. Remember, if you notice any unusual waving or behaviors in your pet, it’s always best to consult with a veterinarian.