One of the most peculiar behaviors bearded dragons exhibit is flattening out in water. This behavior can be seen in other lizards, but why do bearded dragons do it? We’ll explore the reasons why bearded dragons flatten out in water and why it is beneficial for them.
What You'll Learn
What is Flattening Out?
Let’s start by defining what flattening out is, that way you can be sure this is what your bearded dragon is doing.
Flattening out is a behavior that bearded dragons sometimes exhibit when they come in contact with water. They stretch their bodies out flat and often remain still for long periods of time. This behavior is observed in both wild and captive bearded dragons.
The Benefits of Flattening Out
Regulate Body Temperature
Bearded dragons flatten out in water for a few reasons. One of the primary reasons is to regulate their body temperature. Flattening out helps them absorb heat from their environment, which is especially important in cooler climates.
Help With Hydration
Another reason why bearded dragons flatten out in water is to help them with their hydration needs. By flattening out in water, they can absorb more moisture through their skin. This helps them to stay hydrated in hot, dry climates.
More Common in Younger Bearded Dragons
The behavior of flattening out is often seen in young bearded dragons. This is because they are still learning how to regulate their body temperature. As they mature, they become more adept at controlling their body temperature.
Adult bearded dragons may also flatten out in water, but they don’t do it as often. This is because they have learned how to control their body temperature and don’t need to rely on the water to help them.
How to Tell if Your Bearded Dragon is Flattening Out
If you own a bearded dragon, you may be wondering how to tell if it is flattening out in water. One way to tell is to observe its behavior. If your bearded dragon is lying flat on the surface of the water, it is likely flattening out. Simple as that!
Another way to tell is to look at its color. Bearded dragons will often change colors when they are flattening out. Their colors may become lighter or darker, depending on the temperature.
Flattening Out is Safe and Normal Behavior
Bearded dragons flatten out in water for a few reasons. Primarily, they do it to regulate their body temperature and absorb heat from their environment. Flattening out also helps them stay hydrated in hot, dry climates. If you own a bearded dragon, you may be able to tell if it is flattening out by observing its behavior and color.
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