Introduction

Bearded dragons are fascinating pets to care for, and they are known for being interactive and active during the day. However, it’s not uncommon for bearded dragons to suddenly slow down and stay in one spot for extended periods, raising concerns for pet parents. If you’re a beginner owner, experiencing this behavior can be worrying, especially when you don’t know the cause or how to fix it. In this post, we’ll be sharing everything you need to know about why your bearded dragon is staying in one spot.

Possible Reasons for Bearded Dragons Staying in One Spot

Before we discuss the reasons why your pet is staying in one spot, it’s essential to understand that bearded dragons are ectothermic creatures; their body temperature depends on the environment, and their metabolism is affected by the temperature. The environment they are in influences their energy level, digestion, and activity level. So, here are some possible reasons why your pet may be staying in one spot:

1. Basking

Basking is when bearded dragons lie under their heat lamp or in the sun to help maintain their internal temperature. If you notice that your pet is staying in one spot for extended periods, it’s likely basking to regulate its temperature. As compared to all other spots in their habitat, the basking area is usually the warmest spot to sunbathe.

2. Illness

If your pet is staying in one spot for too long and not reacting at all, this might be a sign of illness. Common diseases in bearded dragons include parasitic infections, respiratory issues, or metabolic bone diseases. Check its eating habits, poop, and any other signs of illness, and if you notice anything unusual, contact your reptile veterinarian immediately.

3. Shedding

When bearded dragons shed their skin, they tend to become uncomfortable and lazy. During the shedding, they may spend more time in one spot and move around less. However, shedding is a normal process, and it would help ease the discomfort by providing a humid hide and keeping the enclosure clean.

4. Brumation

Bearded dragons are native to desert areas, and in the wild, they go through brumation, a period where they reduce their activity level and metabolism to conserve energy during the winter. In captivity, some bearded dragons may experience brumation, depending on the temperature and light availability in their habitat. During brumation, they tend to stay in one spot and become less active. However, if your pet shows signs of illness, you should rule that out first.

How to Encourage Your Bearded Dragon to Move Around

You may wonder if there is anything you can do to encourage your pet to move around more. Here are a few tips:

1. Offer a Balanced Diet

Your bearded dragon’s diet should consist of leafy greens, vegetables, fruits, and protein. Feeding your pet a balanced diet will keep it healthy and energized. If possible, try buying live insects like crickets and roaches to get your pet to hunt and move around.

2. Provide Enough Space

Bearded dragons require sufficient space in their enclosure to move around and exercise. The minimum recommended tank size is 75 gallons for an adult bearded dragon. Additionally, provide rocks, logs, and branches as climbing structures for your pet.

3. Mimic Their Natural Habitat

Try to mimic the natural habitat of bearded dragons by providing a basking area, a warm and cool side of the enclosure, and plenty of hiding places. Mimicking their natural environment will encourage them to maintain a healthy level of activity and movement.

Conclusion

Overall, there are many reasons why your bearded dragon may be staying in one spot, and it’s essential to observe your pet’s behavior and rule out any signs of illness. With a balanced diet, enough space, and structure, you can encourage your bearded dragon to move around and maintain optimal health. Remember always to provide your pet with the care they need to live a happy and healthy life.