Bearded dragons are fascinating reptiles that have many unique behaviors and habits. One of them is their sleeping posture, which can vary depending on their mood, environment and health. In this article, we will explore why some bearded dragons sleep with their head up, what it means and how to provide them with a comfortable and safe sleeping environment.
Reasons Why Bearded Dragons Sleep With Their Head Up
Bearded dragons usually curl up into a ball when they sleep, with their head tucked between their legs. This helps them conserve body heat and feel secure. However, some bearded dragons may sleep with their head up, either resting on something or holding it in the air. There are several possible reasons for this behavior:
- They are waiting for something. Bearded dragons are very patient and can wait for hours for something they want, such as food, attention or cuddles. They may sleep with their head up to keep an eye on their surroundings and be ready to react when they see or hear something interesting.
- They are stressed or uncomfortable. Bearded dragons may sleep with their head up if they are feeling stressed or uncomfortable in their enclosure. This could be due to factors such as incorrect temperature, humidity, lighting, substrate, size or decoration of the tank. They may also be stressed by other animals, noises or movements outside the tank. Sleeping with their head up may indicate that they are alert and wary of potential threats or disturbances.
- They are sick or injured. Bearded dragons may sleep with their head up if they are suffering from an illness or injury that affects their breathing, digestion or mobility. For example, they may have a respiratory infection, impaction, dehydration or metabolic bone disease. Sleeping with their head up may help them breathe easier or relieve some pain or discomfort.
- They are brumating. Bearded dragons may enter a state of brumation during the winter months, which is similar to hibernation but not as deep. During brumation, they slow down their metabolism and activity and sleep for longer periods of time. They may sleep with their head up during brumation to regulate their body temperature and avoid overheating.
How To Provide A Comfortable And Safe Sleeping Environment For Your Bearded Dragon
Sleeping is an important part of your bearded dragon’s health and well-being. Therefore, you should provide them with a comfortable and safe sleeping environment that meets their needs and preferences. Here are some tips to do so:
- Provide a proper enclosure. Your bearded dragon’s enclosure should be large enough for them to move around freely and have different areas for basking, hiding and sleeping. The enclosure should also have a secure lid and ventilation holes to prevent escapes and ensure adequate air circulation.
- Maintain optimal temperature and humidity. Your bearded dragon’s enclosure should have a temperature gradient that ranges from 95°F to 110°F on the basking spot and 75°F to 85°F on the cool side. The humidity level should be around 30% to 40%. You can use thermometers and hygrometers to monitor these parameters and adjust them as needed using heat lamps, ceramic heaters, humidifiers or dehumidifiers.
- Provide adequate lighting. Your bearded dragon’s enclosure should have a full-spectrum UVB light that mimics natural sunlight and helps them synthesize vitamin D3. The UVB light should be on for 12 to 14 hours a day and replaced every 6 to 12 months. You should also provide a regular incandescent light or a ceramic heater for additional heat and visible light.
- Choose a suitable substrate. Your bearded dragon’s enclosure should have a substrate that is safe, comfortable and easy to clean. Some good options include paper towels, newspaper, reptile carpet or tiles. You should avoid substrates that are loose, dusty, sharp or edible, such as sand, gravel, wood chips or corn cob. These substrates can cause impaction, irritation, infection or choking if ingested by your bearded dragon.
- Provide hiding places and decorations. Your bearded dragon’s enclosure should have hiding places where they can retreat and feel secure when they want to sleep or rest. You can use items such as rocks, logs, plants, caves or hammocks. You can also decorate the enclosure with items that stimulate your bearded dragon’s senses and curiosity, such as branches, vines, flowers or toys.
Bearded dragons sleep with their head up for various reasons, such as waiting for something, being stressed or uncomfortable, being sick or injured or brumating. To provide them with a comfortable and safe sleeping environment, you should ensure that their enclosure has the proper size, temperature, humidity, lighting, substrate, hiding places and decorations.
If you notice any changes in your bearded dragon’s sleeping habits or behavior that concern you, you should consult your veterinarian for advice and treatment.