What is a Bearded Dragon?

Bearded dragons, also known as “beardies”, are one of the most popular pets in the reptile world. They are friendly, docile, and fun to watch, making them a great choice for beginner reptile owners. They are characterized by their spiky, beard-like appearance around their chin, which they inflate to look more intimidating to predators (or sometimes, their owners!). While they may seem intimidating at first, bearded dragons are actually very social creatures who thrive on interaction with their owners.

Bearded Dragon Poop: What’s Normal and What’s Not?

One of the things you’ll need to know as a new bearded dragon owner is what to expect when it comes to their poop. As with any pet, bearded dragons will produce waste, and it’s important to keep an eye on it to make sure it’s normal and healthy. Normal bearded dragon poop should be brown and firm, similar to human poop. The poop will also be well-formed and easy to pick up.

However, there are times when your bearded dragon’s poop may look different than what you’re used to. For example, some bearded dragon owners may notice that their pet’s poop is black, which can be alarming. But is black bearded dragon poop normal? In short, no. If your bearded dragon’s poop is black, it could be a sign that something is wrong.

What Causes Black Bearded Dragon Poop?

There are several reasons why your bearded dragon’s poop may turn black. It’s important to identify the cause so that you can take action and prevent further problems. Here are some of the most common causes of black bearded dragon poop:

1. Dehydration

Dehydration is a common cause of black bearded dragon poop. If your bearded dragon is not getting enough water, their poop can become dry and dark. To prevent this, make sure your bearded dragon has access to clean drinking water at all times. You can also mist their enclosure to help keep them hydrated.

2. Poor Diet

Another common cause of black bearded dragon poop is a poor diet. Bearded dragons require a balanced diet that includes insects, vegetables, and fruit. If your bearded dragon is not getting the right nutrients, their poop can become discolored. Make sure you’re feeding your bearded dragon a varied diet and that their food is properly gut-loaded.

3. Illness

In some cases, black bearded dragon poop could be a sign of illness. If your bearded dragon is displaying other symptoms, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or vomiting, it’s important to take them to the vet right away. They may have an underlying health issue that needs to be addressed.

What Should You Do If Your Bearded Dragon Has Black Poop?

If you notice that your bearded dragon’s poop is black, it’s important to take action to identify the cause and treat any underlying issues. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Check Their Environment

Make sure your bearded dragon’s environment is set up properly. This includes their enclosure, lighting, and temperature. If any of these factors are off, it could be affecting your bearded dragon’s health and causing their poop to turn black.

2. Make Sure They’re Hydrated

Make sure your bearded dragon is getting enough water. Provide them with clean drinking water at all times, and mist their enclosure regularly to help keep them hydrated.

3. Adjust Their Diet

If your bearded dragon’s diet is lacking in nutrients, adjust their food accordingly. Make sure they’re getting a balanced diet that includes a variety of insects, vegetables, and fruit. You can also try gut-loading their food to give them an extra boost of nutrition.

4. Take Them to the Vet

If your bearded dragon’s poop is consistently black or if they’re displaying other symptoms, such as lethargy or loss of appetite, it’s important to take them to the vet. Your vet can run tests to identify any underlying health issues and provide treatment as needed.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, bearded dragon poop can tell you a lot about your pet’s health. If your bearded dragon’s poop is black, it could be a sign of dehydration, poor diet, or illness. Take action to identify the cause and provide treatment as needed. With proper care and attention, your bearded dragon can live a long, healthy life.