Licking behavior in bearded dragons is something quite peculiar as far as pet lizard behavior is concerned, and this is why people are so interested in it. Understanding bearded dragon behavior will be the subject of today’s article; we will discuss why these pets like to lick so much. If a bearded dragon licks you it has different connotations depending on other factors such as its body language at that time.
Generally, Licking activity in Bearded dragon is believed to express love or bonding session between the two. In fact, it is their way of telling you ‘I trust and am comfortable with you’.
Bearded Dragon Behavior
Abe is obviously well familiar with bearded dragons but I believe that people would be amused by their rather quirky behavior. Here are some common behaviors you might observe in these reptiles:Here are some common behaviors you might observe in these reptiles:
Basking:
One of its amazing characteristics is that bearded dragons are willing to lay under any heat source like heat lamp or sunbeam. It assists them to maintain their body temperatures at a required level or range.
Head Bobbing:
Males sometimes shake their head Up and down in response to another male or just to display that it is the dominant male of the land.
Arm Waving:
Bearded dragons also have some behavior which are exceptional, for instance, they will occasionally move one of the front limbs in circles. It is also believed by many people that this kind of behavior aimed at submitting or to show the recognition.
Puffing Up:
When bearded dragons feel threatened or if they wish to get bigger, they fill themselves up and this makes their spiky beard apparent.
Glass Surfing:
Bearded dragons may engage in glass surfing movement whereby the animal moves up and down along the sides of the cage. Such behaviour which implies aggressiveness, anger or frustration might show that the pet is stressed, bored or just curious.
Reasons for Licking
It is thus important to understand that there are few general reasons for bearded dragons licks their owners. One reason could be that they are in disguise in a sense as they are trying to get information about their environment. Gentle touching is one of the ways, through which they get a chance to savor what they come across with, including our skin. The other explanation could perhaps be that they are expressing affection or bonding with their humans’ or owners’. Licking can be a sign of confidence in one way or the other and also be a way of introducing themselves to someone or something new. Thus, the licking bearded dragons also get close to their owners in order to get attention or when they want something. Although one can observe them doing it, it may be necessary to consider their position and reasons to do it.
There are lots of reasons why bearded dragons lick their owners. The first might be because they are little curiousProbe and they use their tongues actively as instruments for exploring the environment. In this case, they are also able to investigate by licking and hence get to know the tastes of the scents as well as the surface texture of various objects in the surrounding. Two; they are displaying affection and bonding with their owners like human beings.
Body Language
Other factors one should consider when interpreting body language of a bearded dragon include; In looking at body language of a bearded dragon, one must put more emphasis on the signals that are complementary. When they start licking you it can be interpreted with different intentions depending on the attitude and non-verbal communication of the dog. Here are a few things to consider:Here are a few things to consider:
Context: Taking a look at the circumstances under which the licking takes place, one is likely to have this perception. Are they licking you during petting or during a snuggle or when you are cleaning their ears? There could be tenderness and coddling involved and it could also mean they are very close as family.
Body Posture: Some are very aggressive but when fondling their private parts take note of their body posture while licking you. If it’s YES: are they eating and laughing, or do they look stressed and exhausted? A laid back body position may mean that he or she is keen on the conversation whereas a tensed body posture may suggest discomfort or stress.
Eye Contact: This is especially important, especially in their eye contact. If they continue to gaze each other’s way while licking, then what they make be experiencing is trust and bonding.
Other Behaviors: Consider other behaviors that they accompany licking. Finally, it can show if they are tilted back against something, low to the ground, hunched up, standing in a corner orẹp_packets. htm’>Are they in any way aggressive, frightened, or stressed. If so, then let them be and assess the problem as well as a situation.
If a Bearded Dragon is happy you will not find it moving a lot and it will sit still with the body and tail relaxed and not tensed. They may also be gentle, slow in moving the tongue o, which is an indication that the animal is exploring. On the other hand, stress signs will be exhibited in the form of cathemal tongue flicking, blowing up their beard, hissing or moving away from your hand. These are some signs that should be paid attention and also ensure the friend is comfortable in shades and scales.
Some of the indicators of affection include head nodding, loose body movements and the readiness to be touched or picked up. Some of them may also like to be stroked or rubbed softly on the chin or the back. Furthermore, it will also mean something terrible if your bearded dragon curls up next to you or fall asleep in your presence because this shows you they are comfortable with you and safe to be around you. Just like human beings, each Dragon has his or her temper of the heart and therefore, might find different ways on how to show affection.
Health Considerations
It is very crucial to observe changes in your bearded dragon’s health and physical activity. This way, you can notice whenever there are some problems or the kids just aren’t happy, you can quickly address it. Symptoms which you have to be aware include changes in appetite, energy level, and frequency of bathroom visits. Pay special attention to their skin, scales and eyes to determine whether or not they are infected. If you find anything strange then you should look for such a specialist that is a reptile veterinarian who knows what help is needed for the reptile.
If you see your bearded dragon demonstrating any sort of odd behavior like excessive licking then it is best to seek advice from a reptile doctor. They can help one understand whether there is a problem that causes the child to act and behave that manner. As for other health issues veterinarians treating reptiles have insight into genuine ailments and how to treat them. Of course, it is always safer to err and consult a professional especially when it comes to the health of our pet.
Conclusion
Therefore what would remain is for you to closely observe your bearded dragon health and habits of the same. It is, therefore, crucial to notice changes in the appetite, energy levels, skin and scales, eyes or changes in the bathroom habits if they are to diagnose any problem at an early stage. If you witness any abnormal behaviour of licking or other signs of stress it is advisable to seek the services of a reptile veterinarian for proper care. Just always make sure to take the initiative and get help from professionals that will help keep the scaly friend happy and healthy.
