Do Bearded Dragons Have Belly Buttons

Do Bearded Dragons Have Belly Buttons?

Yes, bearded dragons do have belly buttons, but they are not as visible as humans.

Bearded dragon belly buttons, also known as umbilical scars, are one of the features that can be found on a bearded dragon.

This article will provide an overview of what a bearded dragon’s belly button is and how it can be used to provide better-bearded dragon care.

What Do Bearded Dragon Belly Buttons Look Like?

Happy Dragon
Credit: christina Marie

Bearded dragon belly buttons come in two types: inverted and everted. The type of belly button depends on its location on the bearded dragon’s body, which usually appears as a small, dark triangle. In everted belly buttons, the triangle may be more prominent.

Types of Belly Buttons

Moving on from the location of a bearded dragon’s belly button, let us now take a look at the types of belly buttons seen in bearded dragons. Specifically, there are three types of belly buttons observed in bearded dragons: umbilical holes, umbilical clefts, and umbilical pits.

  • Umbilical Holes
    • These are belly buttons characterized by a small hole that appears to be indented within the skin of the bearded dragon.
    • This type of belly button is quite common among juvenile bearded dragons.
    • It is an indication of the umbilical cord that was present in the bearded dragon during the embryonic stage.
  • Umbilical Clefts
    • Unlike an umbilical hole, an umbilical cleft is characterized by an outwardly protruding belly button.
    • These types of belly buttons are often seen in the majority of adult bearded dragons.
    • It is caused by the lack of muscle at the base of the umbilicus and results in the belly button protruding outwards.
  • Umbilical Pits
    • These types of belly buttons are characterized by a small depression or pit in the skin of the bearded dragon, which is filled with a small amount of fluid.
    • They are usually found in the majority of adult bearded dragons.
    • The amount of fluid in the umbilical pit can vary in size and color.

In conclusion, bearded dragons have three distinct types of belly buttons: umbilical holes, umbilical clefts, and umbilical pits. Each type of belly button has its own unique characteristics, which are indicative of the stage of development of the bearded dragon.

Location on Bearded Dragon

The next topic of discussion is the location of a bearded dragon’s belly button. While the exact location of the belly button is different for each species of lizard, there are some general locations where they can be found. Here is a list of the most common locations of a bearded dragon’s belly button:

  • Substrate Bearers:
    • The belly button of a substrate-bearing bearded dragon is located on the underside of the body, near the center of the abdomen.
    • This type of lizard usually has a shallow belly button, which is slightly raised from the surrounding scales.
    • It is usually located in the center of the underside of the abdomen, with the exception of some species which have a slightly off-center belly button.
  • Climbing Lizards:
    • The belly button of a climbing lizard is found on the ventral side of the body, near the base of the tail.
    • This type of lizard has a deep belly button, which is often quite prominent.
    • It is usually located close to the anus, but not as close as the belly button of a substrate-bearing lizard.
  • Tree-Climbing Lizards:
    • The belly button of a tree-climbing lizard is located on the ventral side of the body, near the center of the abdomen.
    • This type of lizard usually has a shallow belly button, which is slightly raised from the surrounding scales.
    • It is usually located in the center of the underside of the abdomen, with the exception of some species which have a slightly off-center belly button.

The location of a bearded dragon’s belly button is an important factor in determining the species of lizard. It is also important to note that the appearance of a bearded dragon’s belly button can vary greatly depending on the species.

Is It Normal for Bearded Dragon Belly Buttons to Change?

the belly of the beast
Credit: Ian Collins

Bearded dragons have an umbilicus, commonly referred to as a belly button, which is normal for reptiles. The appearance of a bearded dragon’s belly button can vary depending on the age, health, and lifestyle of the dragon.

Changes in a bearded dragon’s belly button can be indicative of underlying health issues and should be monitored closely by a veterinarian.

What Is a Bearded Dragon Belly Button?

Transitioning from the previous section, which discussed the appearance of a bearded dragon’s belly button, this section will focus on what a bearded dragon’s belly button actually is. A bearded dragon’s belly button, or umbilicus, is an opening in the abdominal wall that is the remnant of the attachment of the umbilical cord to the embryo.

It is a small slit that can range in color from pink to white and is located in the center of the abdomen. The appearance of a bearded dragon’s belly button can vary depending on its age and health.

In addition, the umbilicus may become more pronounced or sunken, and its color may change. The changes in the belly button may indicate other underlying health concerns, and it is important to monitor any changes in the belly button as part of a bearded dragon’s overall health.

Below is a list of the three major factors that can affect the appearance of the bearded dragon’s belly button:

  • Age: The umbilicus of younger bearded dragons may appear to be more prominent, as the abdominal wall is still developing.
  • Health: Any health issues that a bearded dragon may have, such as a bacterial or fungal infection, can cause the umbilicus to appear sunken or discolored.
  • Nutrition: A proper balance of nutrition is essential for the health of a bearded dragon, and an improper diet can lead to changes in the appearance of the umbilicus.

Therefore, it is important to monitor any changes in the appearance of a bearded dragon’s belly button, as it can be an indication of a larger underlying health concern.

What Is the Appearance of a Bearded Dragon Belly Button?

The transition from the previous section to this section is a natural one, as it is important to understand what a bearded dragon’s belly button looks like in order to determine if it is normal for it to change.

A bearded dragon’s belly button is a small indentation in the abdomen, located where the umbilical cord attaches the baby bearded dragon to the yolk sac. It is usually pink in color, but can sometimes appear white. Additionally, the size of the belly button may change over time as the bearded dragon grows.

In terms of appearance, bearded dragon belly buttons can look different from one another. For example, some bearded dragons may have a more pronounced belly button, while others may have a more shallow one. Furthermore, the color of the belly button may range from pink to white, depending on the bearded dragon’s age and growth.

  • Size:
    • Can range from more pronounced to more shallow
  • Color:
    • Can range from pink to white

It is important to note that changes in a bearded dragon’s belly button do not usually affect its health. These changes are simply a sign of growth and development and are normal for bearded dragons.

How to Find a Bearded Dragon’s Belly Button?

First, it is important to understand the anatomy of a bearded dragon in order to locate its belly button.

Next, observe the dragon’s behavior in order to determine where its belly button is located.

Lastly, carefully examine the dragon’s underside to locate the belly button.

The belly button of a bearded dragon changes significantly. However, it is possible for the color or texture to change over time due to age or injury. If you notice any significant changes in your bearded dragon’s belly button, it is best to consult a veterinarian.

While some bearded dragons may have obvious belly buttons, others may not. To locate a bearded dragon’s belly button, look for a small, dimpled scar on the belly, which may be slightly raised or sunken. The color of the belly button may vary, but generally appears white or pink.

This process can be difficult if the bearded dragon has a lot of scales on its belly. In this case, it is important to look closely to find the scar. Here are some tips on finding a bearded dragon’s belly button:

  • Lift the bearded dragon’s belly scales gently to look for the scar.
  • Look for a slight dimple or indentation in the center of the belly.
  • The color of the belly button may be white or pink.

It is important to be gentle when handling the bearded dragon while searching for the belly button. It is also important to be patient, as it may take some time to find the belly button. With a bit of patience and careful observation, the belly button can be easily located.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Bearded Dragons do have belly buttons, even though they may not be clearly visible. These belly buttons may change over time and may be difficult to find. To identify a Bearded Dragon’s belly button, you should look for an indentation in the ventral area of the body.

If you are still having trouble locating it, consult with a professional reptile vet who can help you with the task. This article has provided a comprehensive overview of what to expect when looking for a Bearded Dragon’s belly button.