Open Mouth Bearded Dragon: What It Means

Bearded dragons are one of the most popular reptile pets. They are easy to take care of, and they make great companions. However, they can be challenging to understand, especially when they exhibit certain behaviours such as opening their mouths. If you are a new bearded dragon owner, you may be wondering what it means when your bearded dragon opens its mouth.

Reasons Why Bearded Dragons Open Their Mouths

• Regulating body temperature - Bearded dragons open their mouths to regulate their body temperature. They do this by expelling hot air from their bodies.
• Stressed or anxious - Bearded dragons open their mouths when they are stressed or anxious. This behavior is usually accompanied by other signs of stress such as pacing, glass surfing, and loss of appetite.
• Basking - Bearded dragons also open their mouths when basking. This is because they need to take in more oxygen to fuel their metabolism while basking. This is a normal behavior.

How to Tell If Your Bearded Dragon is Stressed

Bearded dragons can get stressed easily, and it is important to know the signs of stress. Some of the signs include:

• Pacing and restlessness
• Loss of appetite
• Glass surfing
• Aggression
• Tail twitching
• Darkening of the beard

How to Help Your Stressed Bearded Dragon

If you notice that your bearded dragon is stressed, there are several things you can do to help them feel better:

• Provide a comfortable and quiet hiding spot where they can retreat when stressed
• Ensure that their enclosure is the right size and that they have access to natural sunlight or UV-B bulbs
• Offer a varied and balanced diet that includes live insects and vegetables
• Handle them gently and frequently to ensure they are comfortable with human interaction

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding your bearded dragon’s behavior is crucial in ensuring their well-being. While open mouth behavior is normal while basking, it can also be a sign of stress or anxiety. It is important to observe your pet’s behavior regularly and take prompt action when you notice unusual behavior. With proper care and attention, your bearded dragon will live a happy and healthy life.