Why Do Bearded Dragons Close Their Eyes: Exploring The Reasons
Introduction
Bearded dragons are popular reptile pets because of their calm and sociable nature. They are also unique in their own way, having distinctive physical features from their beard-like scales under their chin to their large and expressive eyes. But if you have been a bearded dragon parent for some time, you may have noticed that sometimes they close their eyes for extended periods. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why bearded dragons close their eyes and what it means for their health and behavior.
1. Relaxed State
Bearded dragons, like other reptiles, have a unique way of indicating that they are relaxed and comfortable in their environment. One way of doing this is by closing their eyes, which reduces the amount of light entering their eyes, making them feel more at ease. So, if you notice your bearded dragon sitting still with its eyes closed, it may just be in a relaxed state.
2. Napping
Bearded dragons are diurnal animals, which means they are most active during the day and sleep at night. However, they may also take short naps during the day to conserve energy. If your bearded dragon is closing its eyes and snoozing, it is a sign that it is taking a nap. You can tell if your bearded dragon is napping if it is resting peacefully with its eyes closed and breathing slowly.
3. Dehydration
In some cases, bearded dragons may close their eyes for extended periods due to dehydration. Dehydration in bearded dragons can be caused by many factors, including lack of water, low humidity, and stress levels. If you notice your bearded dragon is closing its eyes frequently, check its water dish and ensure that it is clean and filled with fresh water. You can also provide a humid hide for your bearded dragon to help maintain healthy levels of humidity.
4. Illness
In rare cases, bearded dragons may close their eyes because they are sick. Some common issues that could cause a bearded dragon to close its eyes include respiratory infections, parasites, and eye infections. If you suspect that your bearded dragon may be sick, it is essential to take it to a reptile veterinarian as soon as possible.
Conclusion
In summary, bearded dragons close their eyes for various reasons, such as a relaxed state, napping, dehydration, and illness. As a bearded dragon parent, it is important to observe and understand your pet’s behavior to ensure they are healthy and happy. If you have any concerns about your bearded dragon’s health, do not hesitate to consult a reptile veterinarian.