While bearded dragons prefer to sleep underground in the wild, they can also sleep upright in captivity. They typically sleep on their stomachs while lying on their backs.
So let’s take a deeper look at how Bearded Dragons get their shut-eye and uncover 5 surprising sleeping habits that make them so unique.
From pre-bedtime rituals to daytime naps, we’ll explore everything there is to know about Bearded Dragon snoozing.
Plus, discover why understanding their sleep cycles is important for your pet’s overall health and well-being.
When Do Bearded Dragons Sleep?
Believe it or not, bearded dragons sleep during the day! During the hottest part of the afternoon, they will usually curl up in a shady spot to take a nap.
They might also spend time snoozing as dusk approaches when temperatures drop. At night, beaded dragons become more active, looking for food and exploring their surroundings.
When it comes to how much rest bearded dragons need, that can vary from reptile to reptile.
Some may sleep longer than others or require more frequent naps throughout the day. Watch for signs like yawning and lethargy, which could indicate that your pet needs more shut-eye.
Do Bearded Dragons Dream?
It turns out that these creatures have some pretty fascinating sleeping habits and dreams!
- Bearded dragons tend to snooze in short bursts throughout the day, usually for two hours at a time. This intermittent pattern is common among reptiles.
- They often take naps while standing up or perched on rocks or branches. To stay safe from predators during their rest periods, they’ll tuck into tight spaces like crevices and hollow logs.
- During their sleep cycles, bearded dragons can enter a state called torpor – similar to hibernation in mammals – where their bodies slow down significantly and energy usage drops drastically.
- Surprisingly enough, bearded dragons appear to dream just like humans do! Scientists observed rapid eye movement (REM) while studying them which indicates dreaming activity during deep sleep phases.
8 Surprising Bearded Dragon Sleep Habits
We’re here to spill the beans and help you get to know your scaly sidekick even better. So, buckle up and dive into the intriguing world of bearded dragons interesting sleeping habits.
Snoozing Vertically
You might think that all animals sleep horizontally, but bearded dragons beg to differ. These little reptiles have been known to snooze vertically, with their heads up and tails down. Why, you ask? It’s believed that this strange position helps them maintain their grip on branches while sleeping, keeping them safe from predators.
Sleeping With One Eye Open
Have you ever heard the phrase “sleeping with one eye open”? Well, bearded dragons take it to a whole new level! They often exhibit a behavior called “unihemispheric sleep,” which allows them to rest one half of their brain while the other half remains alert. This fascinating adaptation helps them keep an eye out for potential threats, even when they’re catching some Zs.
Group Sleep Sessions
Despite being solitary creatures, bearded dragons have been known to partake in group sleep sessions. Yes, you read that right! When housed together, they often sleep piled on top of each other. This quirky behavior might be related to seeking warmth or feeling secure with their fellow beardies.
Sleeping in Burrows
In the wild, bearded dragons don’t simply nod off on the surface. Instead, they dig burrows to sleep in, providing them with a safe, cozy, and temperature-regulated environment. So, if you’re looking to replicate their natural habitat, consider providing a hiding spot or burrow-like structure for your beardie.
Sleeping for days, weeks, or months at a time
Bearded dragons, like many reptiles, go through a period of brumation, which is similar to hibernation. During brumation, they may sleep for extended periods, from a few days up to a few months. This behavior is more common in the cooler months when their metabolism slows down. It’s important to note that not all bearded dragons will brumate, and the length of time spent brumating can vary from one individual to another.
Changing color while sleeping
Bearded dragons can change the shade of their skin while they sleep, often becoming darker or lighter. This change in color is a result of their thermoregulation process, as they adjust their skin color to help regulate their body temperature. Darker colors help them absorb more heat, while lighter colors help them reflect heat and stay cooler.
Covering themselves in the sand to sleep
Bearded dragons are native to the arid regions of Australia and have adapted to living in sandy environments. They may bury themselves in sand or substrate to sleep, which helps them maintain a stable body temperature, stay hidden from predators, and feel secure.
Breathing very slowly
During sleep, bearded dragons may exhibit a slower breathing rate. This slow breathing helps conserve energy and allows them to maintain their body functions at a minimal level. This is especially noticeable during brumation when their metabolic rate is significantly reduced.
FAQs
How many hours do bearded dragons sleep?
Bearded dragons typically sleep for about 8 to 12 hours per night.
Do bearded dragons have a specific sleep schedule?
Yes, bearded dragons are diurnal, which means they’re active during the day and sleep at night.
Should I turn off my bearded dragon’s light at night?
Absolutely! Bearded dragons need a natural day-night cycle to maintain their health and well-being.
Can I hold my bearded dragon while it’s sleeping?
While it might be tempting, it’s best to let your beardie sleep undisturbed to ensure they get the rest they need.
Is it normal for my bearded dragon to sleep in unusual positions?
Yes, bearded dragons are known for their peculiar sleep habits, which can include sleeping vertically, with one eye open, or in a group. As long as your beardie appears healthy and comfortable, there’s no cause for concern.
Conclusion
As I ponder upon bearded dragons and their sleeping habits, I’m reminded of my own sleep patterns.
While it may not be the same as a dragon’s, we do have some things in common; like the need for restful slumber to recharge our batteries.
Just like us, bearded dragons require adequate amounts of quality sleep each day so that they can remain healthy and happy. Like humans, when deprived of this necessary rejuvenation time, many negative effects will manifest themselves including a decrease in appetite and activity levels.
