Ever seen a bearded dragon pressing against its enclosure, almost like surfing the glass? You must have wondered, what are they doing? Well, you’re not alone.

Bearded dragons, these fascinating creatures, exhibit a variety of behaviors that may puzzle us. One such activity is glass surfing, a term coined by herpetologists.

Decoding these behaviors can help us understand and care for them better. Let’s delve into the reasons why our scaly friends might be indulging in this peculiar activity.

5 Factors Behind Bearded Dragon’s Glass Surfing Behavior

• Stress and Anxiety: Bearded dragons can feel stressed or anxious in their environment, leading to glass surfing. This behavior might be a response to rearranging their habitat, changing their location, or introducing new pets.
• Inadequate Tank Size: If your bearded dragon’s tank is too small, they may engage in glass surfing. They require ample space to move around and explore, with a small tank offering little room for physical activity.
• Boredom: Much like humans, bearded dragons can get bored too. Glass surfing may indicate a need for more stimulation, including toys, human interaction, or even a change of scenery within their enclosure.
• Mating Season: During mating season, bearded dragons may exhibit glass surfing behavior. This is common among males who are trying to attract a mate, but females can display this behavior too.
• Reflections: Bearded dragons may mistake their reflections for other dragons, leading to glass surfing. This is particularly likely if the enclosure is lit from the sides or back, creating visible reflections.

How to Discourage Glass Surfing Behavior in Bearded Dragons

Certainly, I would love to help you with that:

Firstly, you can make your bearded dragon’s enclosure more engaging. I suggest adding more props like rocks, tunnels, and basking areas. This change will increase mental stimulation and reduce boredom-driven glass surfing.

Next, consider adjusting the climate inside the habitat. Ensure the temperature gradient and humidity levels are just right for your pet. If it’s too hot, cold, or humid, it may cause restlessness leading to glass surfing.

Consistent handling and socialization also help. Spending regular quality time with your bearded dragon can reduce their anxiety and confusion due to captivity.

Finally, if all methods fail, try covering the lower part of the enclosure’s sides with non-transparent material. This change can discourage the glass surfing behavior as it reduces the visibility and minimizes the perceived need for escape.

Remember, it’s crucial to monitor your pet’s behavior closely. Unusual actions may be an indicator of health issues, so consult with a veterinarian if needed.

To further extend your knowledge about bearded dragons, here are a few more to explore:

• What Causes Constipation in Bearded Dragons?
• Why Is My Bearded Dragon Winking One Eye?
• Why Does a Bearded Dragon Have a Third Eye?

Each post offers in-depth insights, giving you all the details you need to take good care of your beardie.

Remember to research and prepare for your pet’s specific needs, and you’ll have a happy and healthy companion for years to come.

Happy pet-keeping!