Weird and Wonderful Bearded Dragon Behaviors

The social gestures or social behavior exhibited by the dragons include, head bobbing, arm waving and throat puffing. Although such bearded dragon behaviors are more commonly seen or displayed during mating season, they also bob their heads or wave their arms at other times. Males in a conflict vigorously wave their arms, while lizards that are overheating may also wave their arms in an attempt to cool down.

Head bobbing is a territorial behavior and two males who are fighting for domination, will aggressively bob their heads or puff out their throats to show a threatening stance. Females on the other hand are also head bobbers, yet they bob their heads to demonstrate their interest for a particular male, and to indicate that they are ready to mate. The female head bobbing behavior tends to be more relaxed and seductive, while the arm flapping accompanied by the head bobbing is a sure sign that the female is trying to attract a willing and able mate.

Experienced keepers are aware that the behaviors which are displayed by these lizards are not exclusive to either sex. Both male and female bearded dragons will use these weird and wonderful antics for various reasons. The inflated beard is a typical behavior for and this is usually seen during mating season. By inflating their beard the male and females will appear to be more ferocious and larger. Their aim with this particular behavior is to intimidate or scare off their enemies. Another strange behavior is tail curbing and this is a sign that the lizard is in peak condition, good health and is alert.

Dragons are awake and alert during the daylight hours and to this end, pet owners are able to witness the weird and wonderful bearded dragon behaviors. By nature, these lizards are generally social and interactive creatures and will welcome the interaction of their human owners.

Setting up a replicated habitat in a glass enclosure will provide hours of entertainment and owners are able to see the antics of these popular and loved reptile pets - up close and personal. Most dragons tend to be pretty docile, however as with humans, each one is unique and when they are kept in captivity, those who keep these creatures as pets will soon learn the different signs displayed by the lizards. For the most part, these sun-loving reptiles will spend much of their time basking in the sun - and their weird and wonderful antics will be used during mating season or in the event that they feel threatened.

Unlike other types of lizards or reptiles, these endearing creatures enjoy a large level of human contact. Time should be taken to 'tame' the lizards, bearded dragon keepers will soon be able to accurately read the signs exhibited by their pet. With the raised or curb tail being a clear indication that the bearded dragon is in good health and is alert - this behavior will allow owners to gain the assurance that their pet is in tip-top shape and content.

First time keepers should visit the Bearded Dragons Care website where more information on the bearded dragon behaviors have been posted, along with other useful hints and tips on how to keep a dragon in excellent condition. www.beardeddragonscare.com