Why Does My Bearded Dragon Wave?

If you’re a beginner owner of a bearded dragon, you may be confused when you see your pet waving at you. Unlike dogs and cats, reptiles don’t express their emotions in a way that’s easy for us to understand. However, waving is their way of communicating with us. There are several reasons why a bearded dragon might wave, and in this article, we’ll explain what each of them means.

Greeting You

The most common reason why a bearded dragon waves is to greet their owner. These reptiles are social animals, and they enjoy interacting with their owners. When they see you walk into the room, they may start waving as a way of saying hello. This is a sign that your bearded dragon is comfortable around you and trusts you.

Feeling Threatened

If your bearded dragon waves rapidly or repeatedly, it could be a sign that they’re feeling threatened. This can happen if they see something that scares them, like a sudden movement or loud noise. Waving in this context is a warning signal that the bearded dragon is ready to defend itself if necessary. If you notice your pet waving in this way, try to identify the source of the threat and remove it from the environment.

Recognizing Another Bearded Dragon

Bearded dragons can be territorial animals, especially males. When they see another bearded dragon, they may start waving as a way of recognizing them. This is their way of saying, ‘I see you, and I’m aware that you’re here.’ If you have multiple bearded dragons in the same enclosure, you may see them waving at each other frequently.

Behavioral Issues

In some cases, a bearded dragon might wave excessively because of behavioral issues. This can happen if they’re feeling stressed or anxious. For example, if their enclosure is too small or the temperature is too low, they may start waving as a way of communicating their discomfort. If you notice your bearded dragon waving frequently or aggressively, it’s important to assess their environment and make any necessary changes to ensure they’re comfortable and happy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, waving is just one of the many ways that bearded dragons communicate. While it can be confusing for beginners, understanding why they wave can help you better interpret your pet’s behavior and body language. If you’re unsure why your bearded dragon is waving or exhibiting any other unusual behavior, contact your veterinarian to ensure your pet is healthy and happy.