Alright, folks, let’s chat about bearded dragons – our spiky, desert-dwelling pals. You may wonder, “What do bearded dragons like to play with?”
Well, you’re in for a treat because we’re about to dive into a world where Hammocks and Plastic Balls aren’t just for your toddler.
That’s right; these unique critters have their own preferred toys and activities to keep them entertained and happy.
Understanding Bearded Dragons
Before jumping into the toy box, let’s take a moment to understand our spiky pals better. Bearded dragons are native to Australia’s arid, rocky environments, so their idea of fun might be a bit different from yours or mine.
Think about it. They’re not spending their days playing fetch or chasing laser pointers in the wild.
Instead, they’re scrambling up rocky outcrops, hunting for insects, and basking in the sun. Their play preferences reflect these natural behaviors.
You may ask, “What do bearded dragons like to do all day?” Well, they’re pretty chill creatures. Bearded dragons love lounging under their heat lamps, munching on their favorite snacks, and exploring their environments.
A well-set tank can provide plenty of fun and engagement for these easy-going reptiles.
What Are The Games and Activities That Bearded Dragon Lizards Like To Play With?
Here are the fifteen (15) things you can consider;
1. Hammocks
Yes, you heard right! Bearded dragons love to chill out on hammocks. They’re perfect for climbing, lounging, and even napping.
2. Rope Toys
Rope toys aren’t just for dogs. Bearded dragons love to climb and navigate these, too!
3. Plastic Balls
A small plastic ball can be a fun toy for your beardie. They might push it around, chase it, or even climb on top of it.
4. Stuffed Animals
Small, soft stuffed animals can become cozy companions for your bearded dragon. Just ensure they’re safe and non-toxic.
5. Tunnels and Tubes
These can mimic the burrows found in their natural environment, providing a fun hiding and exploring place.
6. Basking Logs
Sunbathing isn’t just for beachgoers. Bearded dragons love a good bask. A basking log in their tank can provide them with a comfortable spot to relax and soak up that heat.
7. Mirrors
Remember that fun fact about bearded dragons recognizing themselves? Small, pet-safe mirrors can provide a fascinating distraction for your beardie. Just don’t leave it in there for too long, as it could lead to stress.
8. Digging Substrates
Beardies love to dig! Having a safe substrate in their tank for burrowing can keep them occupied for hours. Plus, it’s a great way to keep their nails trimmed!
9. Live Insects
Sure, they’re food, but the chase can also be a fun game. Just make sure the insects are safe for your beardie to eat.
10. Water Dishes
Some bearded dragons enjoy splashing around in a shallow water dish. It can serve as both a play spot and a hydration station.
11. Warm Stones
Bearded dragons love warmth, and a heated stone in their tank can provide a cozy spot for them to lounge and play.
12. Plants
While not toys in the traditional sense, plants add a dynamic element to a bearded dragon’s tank. They can climb on them, hide behind them, and even nibble on them if they’re safe to eat.
13. Puzzle Feeders
Keep your beardie’s mind sharp and their instincts honed with a puzzle feeder. Not only does this provide mental stimulation, but it also makes mealtime an exciting challenge.
14. Hiding Spots
Rocks, caves, or even appropriately-sized cardboard boxes can provide a fun and secure hiding place for your bearded dragon.
15. Soft Blankets
A soft, warm blanket can be a cozy spot for your beardie to snuggle into, especially during cooler temperatures.
Choosing the Right Toy for Your Bearded Dragon
Now that we’ve run through a whole toy chest of options, you might wonder, “How do I choose the right toy for my bearded dragon?” Well, that’s where the fun really begins.
As with people, each bearded dragon has its own personality and preferences. The best way to find out what your beardie likes is to experiment.
Try out different toys from the list we provided, observe their reactions, and see what they seem to enjoy the most.
Remember, safety first! Always make sure the toys are safe and suitable for bearded dragons. Avoid anything too small that could be swallowed, or anything with sharp edges that could cause injury.
Also, take into account the size of your bearded dragon and their tank. A toy that’s too big might not fit comfortably in their habitat, and a toy that’s too small might not be engaging or could even become a choking hazard.
Above all, pay attention to your beardie. Their behavior will be the best indicator of whether or not they’re having a good time.
And hey, while we’re on the topic of safety, do you know if bearded dragons bite? Or even more intriguingly, do bearded dragons have teeth?
Dive into our guides for the answers to these and many more fascinating facts about your scaly friends.
How to Safely Introduce New Toys
So, you’ve got your bearded dragon, you’ve got your new toys, and you’re ready for some playtime. But hold on, there’s a right way to introduce these new playthings to your beardie.
First, make sure any new toy is clean and safe. Wash it with warm water and a mild soap, then rinse thoroughly.
Next, place the toy in your beardie’s tank and let them approach it on their own terms. Don’t force the interaction; they might need some time to adjust to this new object in their space.
Keep an eye on your dragon during their first interactions with the toy. Watch for signs of stress, such as darkening of their beard or erratic movements. If you notice any negative reactions, remove the toy and try again later.
And remember, switching up the toys in your bearded dragon’s tank from time to time can keep their environment stimulating and fun. Variety is the spice of life, after all!
Conclusion
And that’s a wrap, folks! We’ve talked about why play is important for our scaly pals, what they like to do all day, and of course, the main event – 15 things that bearded dragons like to play with.
We hope you found some new ideas to keep your beardie entertained and happy.
Remember, every bearded dragon is unique. It might take some time and experimentation to find out what your little friend enjoys the most. But that’s part of the fun, right?
Watching your beardie explore, engage with their environment, and express their unique personality is one of the joys of being a bearded dragon parent.
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