The Science of Bearded Dragon Blinking

Bearded dragons are fascinating creatures that make great pets for beginner reptile owners. If you own a bearded dragon, you may have noticed that they blink their eyes a lot. But why do bearded dragons blink?

Bearded dragon blinking is a normal behavior that serves several purposes. One of the main reasons bearded dragons blink is to clean their eyes. Like all animals, bearded dragons can get dirt, dust, or other small particles in their eyes that can cause irritation or even infection. Blinking helps moisturize and lubricate their eyes, removing any foreign particles or debris.

Another reason why bearded dragons blink is to regulate the amount of light they receive. Bearded dragons have a third eye, called a “parietal eye”, on top of their head. This eye detects changes in light, helping the bearded dragon to determine the time of day and regulate their internal clock. Blinking can help the bearded dragon adjust to the light and keep their parietal eye functioning properly.

Types of Bearded Dragon Blinking

Not all bearded dragon blinking is the same. There are several different types of blinking that bearded dragons use to communicate or signal different needs.

Normal Blinking

Normal blinking is the most common type of bearded dragon blinking. This type of blinking is done to clear away dirt or debris from their eyes.

Rapid Blinking

Rapid blinking is a sign that your bearded dragon is feeling stressed, anxious, or threatened. If your bearded dragon is rapidly blinking, it may be time to check their environment and see what might be causing them distress.

Slow Blinking

Slow blinking is a sign that your bearded dragon is feeling relaxed and comfortable in their environment. They may also be signaling to you that they trust you and feel safe around you.

How to Care for Your Bearded Dragon’s Eyes

To keep your bearded dragon’s eyes healthy, it’s important to provide them with a clean and safe environment. Make sure their enclosure is free of any sharp edges or objects that could hurt their eyes.

You should also regularly clean your bearded dragon’s eyes with a damp cloth or cotton swab. If you notice any discharge, redness, or swelling around their eyes, take them to a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Conclusion

Bearded dragon blinking is a natural and normal behavior that serves several purposes, including cleaning their eyes and regulating light. By understanding the different types of blinking and how to care for your bearded dragon’s eyes, you can ensure that your pet stays healthy and happy for years to come.