Why Bearded Dragon Curled Up in Corner? [What To Do]

Have you ever noticed your bearded dragon curled up in a corner and thought, “What’s going on with my scaly buddy?”

Well, you’re not alone! Many bearded dragon owners have found themselves in a similar situation, scratching their heads trying to decipher their pet’s behavior.

Bearded dragons are unique creatures with their own quirks and personalities. They can display a wide range of behaviors that might leave you feeling puzzled.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into the fascinating world of bearded dragons and explore some possible reasons behind their corner-curling ways.

So, let’s jump right in and get to the bottom of the mystery: Why is my bearded dragon curling up?

Fun fact #1: Did you know that bearded dragons can change their color to regulate their body temperature? They can also darken their beard as a sign of aggression or fear!

Table of Contents

Understanding Bearded Dragon Behavior

Before we can answer the question, “Why is my bearded dragon curling up?” it’s important to understand bearded dragon behavior in general.

These little guys are more than just scaly cuties – they’re complex creatures with their own ways of communicating.

You see, bearded dragons aren’t your typical pet. They’re desert dwellers by nature and have adapted to a lifestyle that’s pretty different from our domesticated fur friends.

They’re solitary creatures, meaning they usually prefer their own company. So, when we bring them into our homes, we need to keep their wild instincts in mind.

Fun fact: #2 Bearded dragons 'wave' to each other! This is a sign of submission in the wild, typically done by a smaller dragon acknowledging a larger dragon's presence.

Why is My Bearded Dragon Curled Up in a Corner?

So, you’ve noticed your bearded dragon curled up in a corner, and you’re wondering, “What gives?” Well, there could be a few reasons for this behavior. Let’s break it down:

Stress

Bearded dragons, like any creature, can experience stress. This could be due to a variety of factors, like changes in their environment, a lack of privacy, or even a nosy cage mate.

When they’re feeling stressed out, they might retreat to a corner and curl up as a way to feel more secure.

Brumation

Ever heard of brumation? It’s kind of like hibernation for reptiles. In the wild, bearded dragons brumate during the cooler months when food is scarce.

They’ll often curl up in a secluded spot and enter a state of dormancy. Even though your pet isn’t living in the wild, they may still exhibit this natural behavior.

Illness

Your bearded dragon might be curled up because they’re not feeling well. Illness can make them lethargic and less active than usual. If you notice other signs of illness, like a change in appetite or unusual droppings, it’s time to consult a vet.

How to Support Your Bearded Dragon’s Health

Alright, we’ve explored why your bearded dragon might be curled up in a corner. But what can you do to help? Here are some tips to support your bearded dragon’s health and happiness:

Creating a Comfortable Environment

Make sure your dragon’s habitat is a place where they feel safe and comfortable. This includes providing a heat source for basking, plenty of hiding spots, and a clean environment. A happy bearded dragon is less likely to curl up in distress.

Regular Health Checks

Keep a close eye on your pet’s behavior and appearance. Regular health checks can help you spot any potential issues early. Look out for changes in appetite, activity levels, or physical appearance.

Nutrition and Hydration

A balanced diet is key to a healthy bearded dragon. Offer a variety of insects, greens, and fruits. And don’t forget about hydration! While bearded dragons get a lot of their water from their food, it’s still important to provide fresh water daily.

When to Seek Veterinary Help

I’m all for giving your bearded dragon the best care possible at home, but sometimes, that just isn’t enough. If your bearded dragon continues to curl up in the corner, despite your best efforts, it’s time to consult a professional.

This curling behavior might be a sign of an underlying health issue that needs medical attention. Other red flags include loss of appetite, abnormal droppings, weight loss, or lethargy.

In these cases, it’s best to contact a vet specializing in reptiles. They’ll be able to give your scaly friend a thorough check-up and guide you on the next steps. Don’t worry; your bearded dragon will be back to exploring and basking in no time!

Conclusion

Well, there we have it, folks! We’ve journeyed together into the world of bearded dragons and unraveled the mystery of why your scaly friend might be curled up in a corner.

Whether it’s stress, brumation, or an underlying health issue, understanding the root cause is the first step towards helping your pet.

Remember, a comfortable environment, regular health checks, and a balanced diet go a long way in ensuring your bearded dragon’s well-being. And if things get a bit too scary, don’t hesitate to seek veterinary help.