Beardie Bonanza: 10 Surprising and Hilarious Fun Facts About Bearded Dragons

Bearded dragons, or "beardies" as they are affectionately known, are one of the most popular pet reptiles in the world. These fascinating creatures are known for their unique behaviors, quirky personalities, and of course, their distinctive "beards". But how much do you really know about these scaly companions? From their love of waving to their ability to change color, here are 10 surprising and hilarious fun facts about bearded dragons.

1. The Beardie Wave

One of the most endearing behaviors of bearded dragons is their "wave". This is not a friendly hello, but a submissive gesture. A bearded dragon will lift one of its front legs in the air and wave it in a circular motion. This is usually done when they feel threatened or are in the presence of a larger, more dominant dragon.

Interestingly, this behavior is not limited to interactions with other bearded dragons. They have been known to wave at other animals, their own reflection, and even their human caretakers. So, if you see your beardie waving at you, don't wave back. They're not being friendly, they're saying "You're the boss!"

2. Color Changing Chameleons

Bearded dragons are not as famous as chameleons for their color-changing abilities, but they can indeed change their color. This is not just for camouflage, but also to regulate their body temperature. When they are cold, they will darken their skin to absorb more heat. When they are hot, they will lighten their skin to reflect sunlight.

They can also change color in response to stress or when they are feeling threatened. A scared or angry bearded dragon will darken its beard, hence their name. So, if your beardie's beard suddenly turns black, it might be a good idea to give them some space.

3. They Have a Third Eye

Yes, you read that right. Bearded dragons have a third eye! This "eye", known as the parietal eye or pineal eye, is located on the top of their head. It is not like their other two eyes and cannot see images. Instead, it senses light and shadow, helping them detect predators from above.

This third eye is also thought to help regulate their circadian rhythms, or sleep-wake cycles. So, if you ever wondered how your beardie knows when it's time to wake up or go to sleep, now you know!

4. They Can Run on Two Legs

When bearded dragons run at high speeds, they lift their bodies off the ground and run on their hind legs. This hilarious sight is not just for our amusement, but actually helps them run faster. By lifting their bodies off the ground, they reduce friction and can reach speeds of up to 9 miles per hour!

However, this behavior is not common in captive bearded dragons, as they rarely need to run from predators. But if you ever have the chance to see a beardie in the wild, you might just catch a glimpse of this funny run.

5. They Love to Climb

Despite their clumsy appearance, bearded dragons are excellent climbers. In the wild, they spend a lot of time in trees and bushes, searching for food and basking in the sun. They have strong legs and sharp claws that help them grip onto branches.

In captivity, it's important to provide your beardie with plenty of opportunities to climb. This not only helps them exercise and stay healthy, but also keeps them mentally stimulated. So, don't be surprised if you find your beardie hanging out at the top of their enclosure!

6. They Can Live Up to 15 Years

With proper care, bearded dragons can live up to 15 years in captivity. This makes them a long-term commitment, similar to a dog or cat. However, their lifespan can be significantly reduced if they are not provided with the right diet, habitat, and medical care.

It's important to do your research and be prepared before bringing a beardie into your home. They are not difficult to care for, but they do have specific needs that must be met to ensure they live a long and healthy life.

7. They Have a Wide Range of Emotions

Bearded dragons are known for their expressive faces and wide range of emotions. They can show happiness, curiosity, fear, aggression, and even boredom. They communicate these emotions through a variety of behaviors, such as puffing up their beard, opening their mouth, hissing, and changing color.

Understanding these behaviors can help you build a stronger bond with your beardie and provide them with the best possible care. So, if your beardie seems bored, it might be time to introduce some new toys or activities into their enclosure.

8. They Can Go Into Brumation

Brumation is a period of dormancy similar to hibernation that bearded dragons go through. During this time, they may eat less, sleep more, and be less active. This usually happens in the winter months, but can also be triggered by a change in temperature or light.

Brumation is completely normal and healthy for bearded dragons, but it can be worrying for new owners. If your beardie is showing signs of brumation, it's important to monitor them closely and consult with a vet if you have any concerns.

9. They Can Eat Both Plants and Animals

Bearded dragons are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and animals. Their diet consists of a variety of insects, fruits, vegetables, and occasionally small rodents. The exact proportions of each can vary depending on their age, size, and health.

It's important to provide your beardie with a balanced diet to ensure they get all the nutrients they need. Overfeeding or feeding them the wrong foods can lead to health problems, such as obesity and metabolic bone disease.

10. They Are Native to Australia

Bearded dragons are native to the arid regions of Australia. They are adapted to live in a variety of habitats, including deserts, savannas, and woodlands. However, they are now found all over the world as popular pets.

In Australia, it is illegal to export bearded dragons, so all beardies found outside of Australia are captive bred. This is good news for the wild population, as it helps protect them from over-collection and habitat loss.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do bearded dragons eat?

Bearded dragons are omnivores and eat a variety of insects, fruits, and vegetables. They can also eat small rodents occasionally.

How long do bearded dragons live?

With proper care, bearded dragons can live up to 15 years in captivity.

Do bearded dragons like to be handled?

Yes, bearded dragons are generally docile and tolerate handling well. However, it's important to handle them gently and give them time to get used to you.

Can bearded dragons live together?

It's generally not recommended to house bearded dragons together, as they can become territorial and aggressive towards each other.

Do bearded dragons need a heat lamp?

Yes, bearded dragons need a heat lamp to regulate their body temperature. They also need UVB light to synthesize vitamin D and absorb calcium.

So there you have it, 10 surprising and hilarious fun facts about bearded dragons. These unique creatures are full of surprises and are sure to bring joy and laughter to any home. Whether you're a seasoned beardie owner or considering getting one for the first time, we hope you've learned something new and interesting about these amazing reptiles.