Why Does My Bearded Dragon Sleep So Much?

It is a common question among bearded dragon owners to wonder why their pet sleeps so much. After all, bearded dragons are known for being active and curious creatures. However, it is completely normal for bearded dragons to sleep for extended periods of time. In fact, adult bearded dragons can sleep up to 12 hours per day, while juveniles may sleep up to 14 hours per day. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why your bearded dragon may be sleeping so much and give you some tips and tricks to ensure your pet stays healthy and happy.

1. Bearded Dragons Need to Regulate Their Body Temperatures

Bearded dragons are cold-blooded creatures, meaning that they rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperatures. In the wild, they will bask in the sun to warm up and seek out shade to cool down. In captivity, it is up to you as the owner to provide your bearded dragon with the necessary heat sources to keep them healthy. This means providing a basking area with a heat lamp and a cooler area on the opposite side of the enclosure.

When your bearded dragon is sleeping, they may be seeking out a cooler place to rest. This is completely normal and should not be cause for concern. However, if you notice that your bearded dragon is sleeping in the basking area or if they are not basking at all, this could be a sign of a health issue. In this case, you should consult a veterinarian.

2. Bearded Dragons Are Nocturnal Creatures

Bearded dragons are not strictly diurnal or nocturnal creatures. They are crepuscular, which means that they are most active at dawn and dusk. This can make it appear as though your bearded dragon is sleeping for long periods of time, but in fact, they are just resting during the day and becoming active during the times when they are naturally more active.

If you are concerned about your bearded dragon’s sleeping habits, try monitoring their activity during the times when they are normally active. If they are still active during these times, then there is no cause for concern.

3. Bearded Dragons Need a Proper Diet

Bearded dragons require a varied diet of insects and vegetables to stay healthy. If their diet is lacking in certain nutrients or if they are not eating enough, they may become lethargic and sleep more than usual. Make sure that you are providing your bearded dragon with a balanced diet and that they are eating regularly.

If you are concerned about your bearded dragon’s eating habits, consult with a veterinarian or a reptile expert for advice.

4. Bearded Dragons Need Proper Lighting

Bearded dragons require proper lighting to stay healthy. They need both UVB lighting and basking lighting to maintain their health. If they do not have access to proper lighting, they may become lethargic and sleep more than usual. Make sure that you are providing your bearded dragon with the proper lighting and that the lighting is replaced regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Tips and Tricks for Bearded Dragon Owners

1. Monitor Your Bearded Dragon’s Sleeping Habits

It is important to monitor your bearded dragon’s sleeping habits to ensure that they are getting the proper amount of rest and that there are no underlying health issues. If you notice a change in their sleeping patterns, consult with a veterinarian.

2. Provide a Comfortable Sleeping Area

Bearded dragons need a comfortable sleeping area to get the rest they need. Make sure that their enclosure has a hiding place and that the temperature is regulated so that they can get a good night’s sleep.

3. Provide a Balanced Diet

Make sure that your bearded dragon is getting a balanced diet of insects and vegetables to ensure that they have the energy they need to stay healthy and active.

4. Provide Proper Lighting

Bearded dragons need both UVB lighting and basking lighting to maintain their health. Make sure that you are providing them with the proper lighting and that the lighting is replaced regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

5. Avoid Disturbing Your Bearded Dragon During Sleep

It is important to avoid disturbing your bearded dragon while they are sleeping. This can cause unnecessary stress and may lead to health issues. If you need to clean their enclosure or perform other tasks, try to do so during the times when they are naturally active.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is completely normal for bearded dragons to sleep for long periods of time. However, if you notice a change in their sleeping patterns or if you are concerned about their health, consult with a veterinarian or a reptile expert for advice. By providing your bearded dragon with a comfortable sleeping area, a balanced diet, and proper lighting, you can ensure that they stay healthy and happy.