Bearded Dragon Running Around Like Crazy: Understanding and Managing Hyperactivity

Bearded dragons, also known as “beardies”, are a popular pet choice for reptile enthusiasts due to their calm and docile behavior. However, some owners may be concerned when they notice their bearded dragon running around like crazy.

This behavior, also known as “glass surfing” or “hyper beardie”, can be a sign of stress and may indicate husbandry issues.

In this article, we will explore the causes of hyperactivity in bearded dragons, the body language they use to signal stress, and provide tips on how to manage this behavior.

Bearded Dragon Running Around Like Crazy

Bearded dragons are a type of lizard that is native to Australia. They are known for their calm and docile behavior, making them an ideal pet choice for both experienced and first-time reptile owners.

However, some bearded dragon owners may notice their pets exhibiting hyperactive behavior, such as running around frantically or constantly climbing and jumping. This behavior can be concerning and may indicate an underlying issue, such as stress or metabolic bone disease (MBD).

Causes of Hyperactivity in Bearded Dragons

There are several possible causes of hyperactivity in bearded dragons.

It’s important to identify the underlying cause in order to properly manage and treat the behavior.

Environmental Factors

Bearded dragons require specific environmental conditions to thrive.

If their enclosure, also known as a tank, is too small or lacks proper lighting, heating, and humidity, it can lead to stress and hyperactivity. A lack of space can also cause a bearded dragon to become restless and anxious, leading to hyperactive behavior.

Medical Conditions

Medical conditions such as parasite infestations or metabolic bone disease (MBD) can also cause hyperactivity in bearded dragons. These conditions can cause discomfort and pain, leading to an increase in activity levels. Regular veterinary check-ups and addressing any underlying medical conditions is important in preventing and treating hyperactivity.

Nutritional Deficiencies or Imbalances

Nutritional deficiencies or imbalances can also lead to hyperactivity in bearded dragons. A diet that is low in protein or calcium can cause a bearded dragon to become restless and anxious. It’s important to provide a balanced diet and ensure that your bearded dragon is getting all the necessary nutrients.

Psychological Factors

Psychological factors such as stress or boredom can also lead to hyperactivity in bearded dragons. These factors can cause a bearded dragon to become anxious or restless, leading to an increase in activity levels.

Body Language

Bearded dragons use body language to communicate their emotions and stress levels. Some signs of stress include:

• Glass surfing or running around the enclosure
• Squinting or closing the eyes
• Hiding or lack of appetite
• Fecal droppings in the enclosure

It’s important to be aware of these signs and to consult with a veterinarian if you have any concerns about your bearded dragon’s behavior.

How to Manage Hyperactivity in Bearded Dragons

If you notice your bearded dragon exhibiting hyperactive behavior, there are several steps you can take to manage and treat the behavior.

Provide Your Bearded Dragon With a Larger and More Stimulating Enclosure

Bearded dragons require a large and spacious enclosure to thrive. If your bearded dragon’s enclosure is too small, it can lead to stress and hyperactivity.

Providing a larger and more stimulating enclosure with plenty of hiding spots, climbing structures, and interactive toys can help reduce stress and hyperactivity.

Ensure Proper Lighting and Temperature for Your Bearded Dragon

Bearded dragons require specific lighting and temperature conditions to thrive. If the enclosure lacks proper, bright, and refulgent light or the temperature is too low or too high, it can lead to stress and hyperactivity.

It’s important to ensure that the enclosure has proper lighting, including UVB lighting, and that the temperature is within the appropriate range. This will help your dragon feel good and comfortable.

Regular Veterinary Check-Ups

Regular veterinary check-ups are important in preventing and treating hyperactivity in bearded dragons.

A veterinarian can help identify and address any underlying medical conditions that may be causing the behavior.

Provide a Balanced Diet

Bearded dragons require a balanced diet to thrive. A diet that is low in protein or calcium can cause a bearded dragon to become restless and anxious. It’s important to provide a balanced diet and ensure that your bearded dragon is getting all the necessary nutrients.

Offer Interactive Toys and Activities

Bearded dragons can become bored and restless if their environment is not stimulating enough. Offering interactive toys and activities, such as climbing structures, hide boxes, and foraging feeders can help prevent boredom and reduce stress and hyperactivity.

Adjust the Night-Time

Bearded dragons are active during the day and need to sleep during the night. If you notice your bearded dragon running around at night, it may be a sign that they are experiencing stress or experiencing some kind of behavioral issue. It’s important to adjust their environment and routine to ensure they have a calm night.

Handle with Care

Bearded dragons are delicate animals and need to be handled with care. It’s important to handle them gently and avoid stressing them out. This will also help you to understand their body language and behavior.

Conclusion

Hyperactivity in bearded dragons can be caused by a variety of factors, including environmental, medical, nutritional, and psychological. Identifying and addressing the underlying cause is essential in managing and treating this behavior. By providing a larger and more stimulating enclosure, ensuring proper lighting and temperature, regular veterinary check-ups, providing a balanced diet, and offering interactive toys and activities, owners can help reduce stress and hyperactivity in their bearded dragons.

It is important to remember that every bearded dragon is different and may have unique needs, so it’s important to observe your pet’s behavior, consult with a veterinarian, and handle them with care if you have any concerns. Following these tips can help you to have a calm and happy bearded dragon, and also make you feel good as a responsible pet owner.