Wondering about why is my bearded dragon digging? Check out our most recent post to learn more about the behavioral and environmental causes of digging and how to address them.
Have you ever noticed your bearded dragon trying to burrow or dig? Digging is a natural behavior for many reptiles, including bearded dragons. It can be concerning to see your pet digging in the corner of the tank or glass surfing and scratching against the walls. In this article, we will discuss what it means when a bearded dragon tries to burrow, common causes of digging in bearded dragons, signs of normal and abnormal digging behaviour, and why your pet might be glass surfing and digging. We will also explore why your bearded dragon may be digging and not eating.
What does it mean when a Bearded Dragon Tries to Burrow?
Bearded dragons are known for their unique behavior, including their tendency to dig and burrow. When a bearded dragon tries to burrow, it is usually an indication that they are seeking shelter or attempting to hide from something. This behavior is normal and is often seen in the wild as well as in captivity.
Hiding from Predators
In the wild, bearded dragons may burrow in order to hide from predators such as birds of prey or other large lizards. By burrowing into the ground, they can make themselves less visible and therefore less likely to be attacked.
Seeking Shelter
Bearded dragons may also burrow in order to seek shelter from extreme temperatures or weather conditions. Burrowing allows them to create a safe space where they can remain comfortable and protected from the elements.
Feeling Secure
In captivity, bearded dragons may also burrow in order to feel secure and safe. If a bearded dragon feels threatened or uncomfortable, they may attempt to hide by digging into the substrate or other materials in their enclosure. This behavior is completely normal and should not be discouraged unless it becomes excessive or destructive.
Overall, when a bearded dragon attempts to burrow, it is usually an indication that they are seeking shelter or attempting to hide from something. It is important to provide your bearded dragon with an appropriate enclosure that allows them to feel secure and comfortable at all times.
Reasons for Bearded Dragon Digging and Glass Surfing
Bearded dragons are known for their digging and glass surfing behaviors. Digging is a natural behavior for these reptiles, as they are burrowing animals in the wild. They will dig to hide from predators or to find food. Glass surfing is when a bearded dragon climbs up the side of their enclosure and appears to be trying to escape. This behavior can be caused by stress, boredom, or a lack of space in the enclosure.
Digging Behavior
Bearded dragons will often dig in their enclosure due to instinctive behaviors that they have inherited from their wild ancestors. In the wild, bearded dragons will dig burrows as a means of protection from predators and to find food sources. When kept in captivity, they may exhibit this same behavior out of instinct. They may also dig if they are feeling stressed or uncomfortable in their environment.
Glass Surfing Behavior
Glass surfing is another common behavior seen in bearded dragons. This occurs when a bearded dragon climbs up the sides of their enclosure and appears to be trying to escape. This behavior can be caused by stress, boredom, or a lack of space in the enclosure. It can also occur if the temperature or humidity levels are not ideal for them. Providing plenty of enrichment activities such as climbing branches and hiding spots can help reduce this behavior.
Overall, bearded dragons have natural behaviors that include digging and glass surfing. Understanding why these behaviors occur can help owners provide an environment that is more suited to their needs and help reduce or eliminate these behaviors altogether.
Signs of Normal and Abnormal Digging Behaviour
Bearded dragons are known for their digging behaviour. This is a normal behaviour, and can be seen in both wild and captive bearded dragons. In the wild, they use their digging to find food, hide from predators, or build a shelter. In captivity, it is usually a sign of boredom or stress. It is important to know the difference between normal and abnormal digging behaviour in order to provide your bearded dragon with the best care possible.
Normal Digging Behaviour
Normal digging behaviour includes burrowing into substrate or bedding material, such as sand or soil. Bearded dragons may also dig around objects in their enclosure, such as rocks or logs. They may also scratch at the sides of the enclosure if they are trying to escape.
Abnormal Digging Behaviour
Abnormal digging behaviour includes excessive scratching at walls or furniture, which could be a sign of stress or anxiety. If your bearded dragon is constantly trying to escape its enclosure, this could be a sign that it is not getting enough stimulation in its environment. It could also be a sign that the enclosure is too small for your bearded dragon’s needs.
Conclusion
Digging is a normal behaviour for bearded dragons, but it can also indicate stress or boredom if done excessively. Knowing the difference between normal and abnormal digging behaviour can help you identify potential problems with your bearded dragon’s environment and provide them with the best care possible.
Common Causes of Digging in Bearded Dragons
Bearded dragons are known for their active and curious nature, which often includes digging. Digging is a natural behavior for bearded dragons and can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common causes of digging in bearded dragons include seeking out food, looking for a mate, creating a shelter or burrow, or simply to explore their environment.
Seeking Out Food
Bearded dragons are omnivorous animals and need both plant-based and animal-based proteins in their diet. When they are out in the wild, they will often dig to find food sources such as insects, worms, and other small animals. In captivity, they may still attempt to dig to look for food even though they are provided with adequate nutrition.
Looking For A Mate
During mating season, male bearded dragons will often dig burrows as a way to attract potential mates. The burrows provide a safe place for the female to lay her eggs and also serve as a way for the male to show off his strength and agility.
Creating A Shelter Or Burrow
Digging can also be used as a way for bearded dragons to create shelter or burrows. This is especially true during hot summer months when temperatures can become too high for them to handle. By digging into the ground, they can create an area that is cooler than the outside temperature and provides protection from predators.
Exploring Their Environment
Bearded dragons are naturally curious creatures and may dig simply out of curiosity or exploration of their environment. They may also use digging as a way to hide from potential predators or find new places to bask in the sun.
Why is my Bearded Dragon Scratching in the Corner?
Bearded dragons are naturally curious and active creatures that love to explore their environment. When they come across something interesting, such as a corner of the tank or a piece of furniture, they may start to scratch at it. This behavior is usually harmless, but it can be concerning for owners who don’t understand why their pet is doing it.
Scratching in the corner is often a sign that your bearded dragon is looking for something to do. They may be trying to dig for food or shelter, as this behavior is commonly seen in the wild when they are searching for insects or plants. It can also be a sign of boredom, as they may be trying to create their own entertainment by exploring and digging around the tank.
Digging Behavior
Bearded dragons have an instinctual urge to dig, which can lead them to scratching in the corner of their enclosure. In the wild, they use digging as a way to find food and shelter from predators. In captivity, this behavior can become more frequent if your dragon doesn’t have enough stimulation in its environment.
Providing your bearded dragon with plenty of enrichment activities such as climbing branches and hiding places will help keep them entertained and less likely to engage in destructive behaviors like scratching in the corner. You should also make sure that your dragon has enough space to move around and explore without feeling cramped or restricted.
Substrate
The type of substrate you use in your bearded dragon’s enclosure can also influence their scratching behavior. If you’re using sand or other loose substrates, then your bearded dragon may be trying to dig into it while exploring their environment. To prevent this behavior, try switching to a non-digging substrate such as paper towels or reptile carpeting. This will provide a more comfortable surface for your dragon while still allowing them to explore without causing any damage.
Overall, scratching in the corner is usually just a sign that your bearded dragon is bored or looking for something interesting to do. By providing them with plenty of enrichment activities and an appropriate substrate, you can help discourage this behavior and keep them entertained and happy.
Why is my Bearded Dragon Glass Surfing and Digging?
Bearded dragons are fascinating creatures that have a lot of unique behaviors. One of the most common behaviors observed in bearded dragons is glass surfing and digging. Glass surfing is when a bearded dragon rubs its body against the side of the tank, and digging is when it burrows into the substrate. Both behaviors can be seen in wild bearded dragons, but why do they do it?
Glass Surfing
Glass surfing is a behavior that is often seen in captive bearded dragons. It occurs when a bearded dragon rubs its body against the side of the tank or enclosure. This behavior can be caused by several factors, such as stress, boredom, or even an attempt to escape from their enclosure. It’s important to identify the cause of this behavior so that you can take steps to address it.
Digging
Digging is another behavior often seen in captive bearded dragons. This behavior involves a bearded dragon burrowing into the substrate or digging tunnels in their enclosure. This behavior can be caused by several factors, such as trying to find food, looking for shelter, or simply exploring their environment. It’s important to understand why your bearded dragon is digging so that you can take steps to address it if necessary.
Overall, understanding why your bearded dragon is glass surfing and digging can help you provide them with a better environment and ensure their health and wellbeing. If you’re unsure why your bearded dragon is exhibiting these behaviors, it’s best to consult a veterinarian or reptile specialist for advice on how to address them.
Why is my Bearded Dragon Digging and Not Eating?
Bearded dragons are known for their digging behavior, but when they start to dig and not eat, it can be a cause for concern. Digging is a natural behavior for bearded dragons, as they use it to create burrows to sleep in and hide from predators. It also helps them regulate their body temperature by burying themselves in the warm sand. However, when your bearded dragon begins to dig and not eat, it could be an indication of something more serious.
Stress
One of the most common reasons why your bearded dragon may be digging and not eating is due to stress. Stress can be caused by a variety of factors such as changes in the environment, new people or animals in the house, or even too much handling. If you think that your bearded dragon may be stressed, try providing them with a quiet area away from any potential stressors and make sure they have plenty of hiding places to help them feel secure.
Illness
Another possible reason why your bearded dragon may be digging and not eating is due to an underlying illness or medical condition. Bearded dragons can suffer from various illnesses such as parasites, respiratory infections, or even metabolic bone disease. If you suspect that your bearded dragon may be ill, take them to a qualified reptile vet for diagnosis and treatment.
Temperature
Bearded dragons are ectothermic animals which means that they rely on external sources of heat such as basking lamps or heating pads to regulate their body temperature. If the temperature in their enclosure is too low or too high, they may begin to dig as a way to regulate their body temperature. Make sure that you have the correct temperature gradient set up in their enclosure which should range from 75-85°F (24-29°C).
In conclusion, if your bearded dragon is digging and not eating it could be due to stress, illness, or incorrect temperatures in their enclosure. It’s important to monitor your pet closely so that you can identify any potential issues early on and provide them with the necessary care they need.Reptiles Magazine
Closing Thoughts
Bearded dragons are fascinating creatures that can display a wide variety of behaviors. Digging is one of the more common behaviors that bearded dragons exhibit. In this article, we discussed what it means when a bearded dragon tries to burrow, the reasons for digging and glass surfing, signs of normal and abnormal digging behavior, common causes of digging in bearded dragons, why your bearded dragon may be scratching in the corner, why they may be glass surfing and digging, and why they may be digging but not eating.
It is important to remember that if you notice any changes in your bearded dragon’s behavior or if their digging becomes excessive or destructive, it is best to consult a veterinarian. A vet can help you determine what is causing your pet’s unusual behavior and how to address it.
We hope this article has helped you better understand why your bearded dragon might be digging. Thank you for following along! If you have any thoughts or information on the topic of “why is my bearded dragon digging” please share them in the comments below!
