Why Is My Bearded Dragon Glass Surfing? Tips for Stopping This

Glass surfing is a common but puzzling behavior in bearded dragons. If you’ve noticed your pet frantically trying to climb the walls of its enclosure, you might wonder what’s causing this activity. This behavior, often referred to as “glass surfing,” can be concerning for pet owners. In this blog, we’ll explore the reasons behind glass surfing in bearded dragons and provide tips to help curb this behavior.

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What Is Glass Surfing in Bearded Dragons?

Bearded dragons exhibit glass surfing for several reasons. This behavior involves your bearded dragon repeatedly trying to climb or scratch at the walls of their glass enclosure. While it might seem harmless, it often indicates that something is not right in their environment or their well-being.

Environmental Stressors

Environmental factors play a significant role in causing glass surfing. Bearded dragons are sensitive to changes in their habitat, and stress can trigger this behavior. Some common stressors include improper temperature, inadequate lighting, or a lack of hiding spots. Ensuring that your bearded dragon’s enclosure mimics their natural habitat as closely as possible can help reduce stress and prevent glass surfing.

Inadequate Space

Bearded dragons need enough space to move around and explore. If their enclosure is too small, they may become frustrated and start glass surfing. Providing a spacious environment with plenty of room to roam can help keep your bearded dragon happy and healthy.

Reflections and Perceived Threats

Sometimes, bearded dragons mistake their reflection in the glass for another bearded dragon. This perceived threat can lead to aggressive behavior, such as glass surfing. To minimize reflections, consider placing a background on the outside of the enclosure or adjusting the lighting to reduce glare.

Seeking Attention

Bearded dragons are social creatures and sometimes glass surf to get their owner’s attention. They might want to be let out of their enclosure to explore or interact with you. Spending quality time with your bearded dragon and providing enrichment activities can reduce this attention-seeking behavior.

Tips for Preventing Bearded Dragon Glass Surfing

Understanding why your bearded dragon is glass surfing is the first step toward preventing it. Here are some practical tips to help curb this behavior and ensure your pet’s well-being.

  • Temperature and Lighting: Bearded dragons need a basking area in their enclosure with temperatures around 95-110°F and a cooler area with temperatures around 75-85°F. Proper UVB lighting is also essential for their health. Regularly check the temperature and lighting in the enclosure to make sure it meets your bearded dragon’s needs.
  • Hiding Spots: Providing hiding spots in the enclosure can make your bearded dragon feel more secure. You can use rocks, logs, or commercial hides to create safe spaces where your pet can retreat and feel safe.
  • Enclosure Size: Ensure that your bearded dragon’s enclosure is large enough for them to move around comfortably. A 40-gallon tank is the minimum size for an adult bearded dragon, but bigger is always better. A spacious environment allows your bearded dragon to explore and reduces the frustration that can lead to glass surfing.
  • Reduce Reflections: To minimize reflections in the glass, consider placing a background on the outside of the enclosure. You can also adjust the lighting to reduce glare. These steps will help prevent your bearded dragon from mistaking their reflection for another dragon and reduce stress.
  • Toys and Climbing Structures: Adding toys and climbing structures to the enclosure can keep your bearded dragon entertained. Branches, rocks, and other items that encourage climbing and exploration are great for enrichment.
  • Interaction and Handling: Regularly interacting with your bearded dragon and allowing them to explore outside their enclosure can reduce glass surfing. Handle your bearded dragon gently and let them explore a safe, supervised area. This interaction can strengthen your bond and reduce attention-seeking behavior.
  • Outdoor Time: If the weather permits, taking your bearded dragon outside for some natural sunlight and exploration can be beneficial. Make sure to supervise them closely and ensure they are safe from predators and other dangers.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you’ve tried various strategies to stop your bearded dragon from glass surfing without success, it might be time to seek professional help. Persistent glass surfing could indicate an underlying health issue that requires veterinary attention.

Health Checkups

Regular health checkups are essential to ensure your bearded dragon is healthy. If glass surfing continues, your veterinarian can help identify any health problems and provide appropriate treatment.

Behavioral Consultation

In some cases, consulting with a reptile behavior specialist might be necessary. These professionals can offer insights into your bearded dragon’s behavior and suggest tailored strategies to address glass surfing.

Enhancing Your Bearded Dragon’s Quality of Life

Glass surfing can be a sign that your bearded dragon is not entirely happy in their environment. By optimizing their enclosure, providing enrichment activities, and ensuring regular health checkups, you can enhance your bearded dragon’s quality of life and reduce unwanted behaviors. If you have any concerns about your bearded dragon’s behavior, call Paws and Claws Animal Medical Center in Dunedin, FL, at (727) 953-6588 for professional advice and assistance.

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