Some of the noticeable characteristics of bearded dragons include the existing features and behaviors, but there is a question mark whether or not the dragons can swim. Some people think that bearded dragons swim while others say that they are not capable swimmers. Dissecting bearded dragon’s body structures and examining its natural setting and behavior as regards water will also be performed in order to consider its swimming capacity.

Anatomy of Bearded Dragons

One has to consider the factors such as the body structure of bearded dragons which affects their ability to swim. They are strong limbed and clawed creatures with which are well suited for the terrestrial environments. Despite this, some of them like the large and bulky construction and short legs used in some models may hinder swimming. Unlike the aquatic reptiles which have webbed limbs and a streamlined body that could enable it to swim effectively bearded dragons do not.

Bearded dragons are characterized by a stout body, bulk at the middle and a wide head triangle shaped body. One obvious adaptation his set of spines, more simply referred to as the ‘beard,’ located beneath the chin, which turns black and swells when threatened or gets other types of upset. On their back and tail they also have a sort of spiky scales which can be erected or laid flat depending on the mood of the animal. They have long claws which can be of help in climbing and digging, the skin of this reptile is rough, scaly and it comes with different coloration. They are other physical attributes that make associated with terrestrial lifestyle and poor swimming abilities.

Natural Environment and Water Contamination

Bearded dragons inhabit areas such as deserts and woodlands that are located in Australia and where they mostly encounter a scarcity of water. Nonetheless, they have been able to learn how to relate with water in their surrounding environment. They do not rely more on water to access water but, they do use it when they are able to find it.

In the wild bearded dragon may come across water in the form of rainwater pooled on the ground in form of puddles or even small creeks. They may have to use these sources of water in order to quench their thirst. Further, they employ other signs of ‘bathing’ when they encounter areas of water that is either shallow or contains water cracks. The reason why they bathe often is to help them reduce temperature, get rid of their skin and also get some water through their skin.

Bearded Dragons and Swimming

 Bearded dragons more often than not are not built to swim. They have a short robust build with short limbsirket which is more appropriate for trees and ground activities of climbing and running. The muscular and heavy tail can also limit their hypodampnic ability to maneuver in water, besides propelling them. Bearded dragons are basically unwilling swimmers and while they can paddle their legs and swim a short distance, they are essentially poor swimmers and may not be able to float for long periods.

Bearded Dragons Water Safety

If you decide to allow your bearded dragon to interact with water, keep the following safety tips in mind:If you decide to allow your bearded dragon to interact with water, keep the following safety tips in mind:

Supervision: Ensure that you are always near your bearded dragon each time that he goes for a swim. This ensures that you can observe their actions, avoid cases whereby the animals may mistake water for food and also deal with any problems that may occur. It is preferred not to leave them unattended because of possible accidents as was seen in the auto accident illustration.

 Water Temperature: Bearded dragons are also known to be ectothermic animals and therefore, they depend on outside heat to control their body temperature. Some tips can be given in response to the above question, and they include the following: Ensure that the water is lukewarm, preferably 85-90°F ( 29-32°C) so that the kids are comfortable in water.

Alternative Hydration Methods

 In addition to water baths, there are other ways to keep bearded dragons hydrated in captivity:In addition to water baths, there are other ways to keep bearded dragons hydrated in captivity:

 Fresh Vegetables: One should also note that bearded dragons are able to get a lot of fluids from the vegetables they consume. Include a number of vegetables and green leafy that contain high water content like kale, collard green and cucumber.

 Misting or Spraying: By constantly misting or spraying water in the enclosure the humidity levels are increased. Sometimes, bearded dragons may lick the water droplets that are on surfaces in order to quencher its thirst.

Conclusion

To sum up, bearded dragons seem to play with water but this is not the same thing as meaning that these lizards are capable of swimming. It is now obvious that these animals are designed along the lines of regular animals that live on a plain land basin. We have to remember never to enable them or encourage them to do something that they are incapable of but offer them an environment which will make them feel comfortable and safe at all times.