Have you ever noticed your bearded dragon staring at you? Those unblinking eyes locked on you as you go about your day. It’s only natural to wonder – why does my bearded dragon stare at me?
As a bearded dragon owner, I’ve often asked myself this question.
These curious reptiles have some fascinating behaviors that we don’t always understand. Staring could mean several things based on body language and the situation.
In this article, I’ll explore the meaning behind some of the most common bearded dragon stares.
You’ll learn why they watch you with an open mouth, look at you sideways, glare at the wall, and more.
I’ll also share tips on how to tell if your bearded dragon trusts you based on their stare.
Keep reading to unlock the secrets behind your bearded dragon’s stare!
By the end, you’ll better understand what your scaly friend is trying to communicate when they lock eyes with you.
Why Does My Bearded Dragon Stare At Me?
A bearded dragon’s stare can mean a variety of things.
Sometimes they are just people-watching! Bearded dragons are very curious and observant reptiles.
When they stare at you, it often means they are intrigued by the movements and sounds you make.
I’ve noticed my beardie Gaz watches me intently when I’m cooking or cleaning.
The sights and noises draw his attention.
Don’t be unnerved if you suddenly feel the weight of that bearded dragon gaze on you.
Chances are he’s just intrigued by what you’re up to.
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Why Does My Bearded Dragon Stare At Me With His Mouth Open?
An open-mouthed stare is how a bearded dragon regulates its body temperature. By gaping, it can take in more air to cool down.
If the temperatures are normal in the tank, an open-mouthed stare could also mean your bearded dragon is thirsty and panting to cool its mouth. Make sure fresh water is always available.
Sometimes an open-mouthed stare happens during handling when a bearded dragon is stressed.
He may feel overheated from the activity.
My beardie Blue will pant when she’s had too much excitement from being held. A cold bath brings her temperature back down.
Why Does My Bearded Dragon Look At Me Sideways?
The sideways stare is a submissive gesture bearded dragons make when they feel threatened or unsure.
In the wild, it’s a way to avoid conflict with more dominant dragons.
Side-eyeing you may mean your bearded dragon isn’t totally comfortable yet.
Approach slowly and let them come to you at their own pace.
Over time, those sideways glances will turn into full-on friendly stares!
My beardie Loki (I got 4) used to look at me uncertainly until he got completely used to me.
Now his sideways stare happens when he wants food or attention.
Once I figured that out, it became an endearing part of his body language!
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Why Does My Bearded Dragon Stare At The Wall?
Bearded dragons are highly visual creatures. Sometimes when they stare at the wall, they are just observing subtle movements and shadows.
It may look like blank space to us, but reptiles see the world differently than humans.
Subtle textures and light shifts can hold a bearded dragon’s interest when we see nothing.
Staring at the wall can also simply mean your bearded dragon is spaced out!
Reptiles are cold-blooded and need to thermoregulate, so they spend a lot of time sitting still and zoning out into lizard land.
When basking under a heat lamp, bearded dragons can stare blankly ahead for long periods. Enjoy the chance to admire those prehistoric profiles.
However, if wall-gazing is accompanied by scratching, rubbing, or darkened beard patches, parasites could be irritating your dragon.
Make an appointment with the vet to have your bearded dragon checked for mites or other crawlies that may need treatment.
Catching an infection early keeps your pet happy.
In my experience, most wall-eyed staring is perfectly normal lizard behavior.
But it never hurts to rule out medical issues if your bearded dragon seems bothered while gazing at the wall.
With attentive care, you’ll both enjoy those chill zone-out sessions.
Why Is My Bearded Dragon Clawing At The Glass?
Scratching and clawing at the tank glass is a common behavior you’ll see from time to time.
In most cases, it’s perfectly normal and nothing to worry about.
Here are some reasons your beardie might be decorating the glass with claw marks:
Exploring – Bearded dragons have excellent vision and see the world through movement and shadows.
A dragon may claw at the glass trying to chase its own reflection or interesting lights and shadows on the tank.
It’s just investigating its home.
Finding a Way Out – Tapping and scratching could mean your bearded dragon is hoping to find an exit.
Don’t worry, the glass barrier hasn’t cracked (they aren’t that strong!).
He just wants to explore. Open the tank and let him roam a bit.
Getting Your Attention – A beardie might claw at the glass when hungry or wanting some affection.
My dragon Scrambles stands on his hind legs and taps the glass when he’s ready to come out.
Try interacting with your dragon whenever they do this.
Shedding – Getting ready to shed can make a beardie scratch more at rough surfaces.
Make sure there are rocks or logs to rub against to help loosen the skin.
It will minimize glass scratching.
If the glass scratching behavior is excessive, re-check your husbandry.
Make sure the temperature gradient is correct and your dragon has proper UVB lighting.
Also, provide ample enrichment and exercise.
A well-adjusted bearded dragon will do normal glass tapping, not frantic clawing.
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Why Does My Bearded Dragon Close One Eye?
It’s common to see a bearded dragon lounging around with one eye open and one eye closed.
This is actually normal behavior, not a sign of illness.
Here’s why they close just one eye.
Keeping Watch – Reptiles can enter a restful state while still staying alert.
Closing one eye allows them to rest half their brain while the open eye continues to watch for threats and food.
Wild bearded dragons often sunbathe this way.
Blocking UVB – Bearded dragons need UVB light, but uncontrolled exposure can damage their eyes.
Closing one eye cuts the UV intensity in half while allowing them to bask.
Rotate which side they keep closed to prevent eye problems.
Submitted Body Language – A one-eyed stare can signal submission to another bearded dragon.
The open eye watches the dominant dragon while the closed one shows passivity.
Both eyes will eventually open once comfortable.
Improving Depth Perception – Studies show that reptiles may close one eye at a time to help focus their 3D vision.
This could explain the head-bobbing motion bearded dragons often do.
As long as both eyes can open, intermittent winking is no cause for alarm.
Think of it as your bearded dragon entering a sunbathing zen state while staying alert.
A dragon relaxing with just one eye open often means it feels safe and content!
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Why Do Bearded Dragons Close Their Eyes When You Rub Their Head?
Bearded dragons will often close their eyes and lean into head rubs, much like a dog or cat enjoying a good scratch.
For these basking lizards, it’s a sign of pure bliss!
Petting a beardie’s head gives stimulation to calming pressure receptors under the scales.
Massaging these pressure points releases endorphins that make your dragon feel relaxed and content.
The sensation is akin to a human getting a head or neck massage.
Closing both eyes demonstrates a bearded dragon is in a completely trusting state.
They feel safe enough in your presence to drop their guard and enjoy the affection.
It’s similar to when a bearded dragon closes both eyes while basking under heat lamps.
Some bearded dragons may slowly wave their arms while getting head rubs.
This cute “air swimming” motion further shows they are in a relaxed state of lizard nirvana!
It’s their way of manifesting visible happiness.
While not all bearded dragons enjoy prolonged handling, most appreciate a good head rub.
Pay attention to their body language- half-closed eyes, leaning in, and arm waves mean to keep those scratches coming! For the friendliest dragons, nothing beats a rub on the noggin.
How To Tell If Your Bearded Dragon Trusts You?
It takes time and patience for a bearded dragon to fully trust their owner.
But with the right care and bonding, you’ll develop a close friendship with your scaly companion.
Here are some signs that show your bearded dragon trusts you.
- Closing both eyes when you pet them – As mentioned before, both eyes closed demonstrates a fully relaxed state.
- Climbing on you voluntarily – A beardie who crawls on you or snuggles up is comfortable in your presence.
- Sitting still when handled – No squirming or trying to run away means your dragon feels secure with you.
- Eating from your hand – Letting your hand feed shows your bearded dragon has confidence in your movements.
- Arm waving – “Air swimming” while being a pet is a sign of visible happiness.
- Curious staring – Intrigued watching as you move about shows your bearded dragon is bonded.
- Coming to the tank glass – Running over when you approach is an indicator they enjoy your company.
With daily interaction, safe handling, and caring for their needs, a strong bond of trust can form.
Be patient, move slowly, and get to know your bearded dragon’s unique personality.
In time, you’ll have a calm companion who looks forward to your quality time together.
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Why Does My Bearded Dragon Lick Me?
You may notice your bearded dragon flicking its tongue out to lick your hand, arm, or face during handling. This lizard kiss is their way of getting to know you.
Here’s what that little lick means.
Tasting Scents – Like snakes, a bearded dragon’s tongue collects chemical molecules that deliver scents.
They lick to gather the unique scent profile of people and objects, which gets stored in their memory.
It’s how they recognize friends from strangers.
Affection and Bonding – Frequent licking is a sign your bearded dragon is comfortable with you.
The more bonded, the more licks you’ll get. It’s a display of trust and enjoyment of your company.
Think of it as kisses from your scaly friend!
Curiosity – Bearded dragons explore the world through taste and smell.
Licking gives them sensory information about their environment.
A new person or object will get sampled right away.
While it may seem strange at first, see those licks as your bearded dragon giving you little kisses.
It means they are curious about you, feel affectionate, and want to learn your scent.
Positive interactions result in more licks over time. Basically, frequent licks mean you have a happy beardie buddy.
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Can Bearded Dragons Smile?
While bearded dragons may not be able to make the exact same facial expressions as humans, they definitely exhibit body language and behaviors that convey happiness, contentment, and excitement.
As their owners, we can interpret these cues as their version of a “smile”.
For example, a bearded dragon lying on its back basking under the heat lamp with legs splayed and eyes softly closed looks positively serene and satisfied.
Or when your beardie does the cute arm-waving motion while being petted, it’s akin to a happy dance at receiving affection.
When a bearded dragon slowly cranes its neck to press into your hand for more head scratches, it’s like a cat nuzzling for more petting.
And the curious head-bobbing motion while watching you move about the room signals enthusiastic interest in your activities.
While we need to resist overlaying human attributes onto reptiles, these behaviors certainly convey a reptile version of smiling contentment.
Relaxed posture, eager motions, squinty eyes, and tongue flicking all add up to a happy beardie.
Focus on understanding your bearded dragon’s unique body language instead of human facial expressions.
Do Bearded Dragons Like Watching TV?
When I first got my bearded dragon, Loki, I was curious if he would be interested in watching TV like my dog.
So I turned on some nature documentaries to see if they caught his attention.
At first, Loki seemed oblivious to the television. But after a few minutes, his head started bobbing side to side, following the movements on screen.
He was especially captivated whenever birds, insects, or other animals appeared.
I’ve found certain shows reliably catch Loki’s interest. Moving images with bright colors grab his eye, like nature scenes, animated kids’ programs, or cooking shows.
He’ll watch intently for several minutes before losing interest.
Turning on the TV also seems to have a calming effect when Spyro is out of his tank exploring.
The distractions and colors keep him relaxed and less likely to get stressed by unfamiliar surroundings.
So while bearded dragons don’t understand television in the same way humans do, the lighting and movement can mesmerize them for short periods.
It serves as gentle environmental enrichment.
Just don’t leave the TV on too long, as too much stimulation can be overexciting.
But an occasional nature or animal show can make for intriguing beardie viewing!
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Do Beardies Like Being Kissed?
As an owner, it’s only natural to want to shower your bearded dragon with affection. However, kissing is one human custom that doesn’t translate well to reptiles.
While you mean well, beardies generally don’t enjoy or understand kisses.
As discussed before, bearded dragons explore new things primarily through smell and taste.
So kisses to them would involve an unfamiliar face looming close and pressing on their snout. This can feel threatening rather than affectionate.
Bearded dragons also don’t have lips and don’t kiss each other. Open-mouth gaping is used for regulating heat, not as a sign of love.
Any type of mouth-to-mouth contact will just seem foreign and stressful.
There are better ways to bond with your beardie that they will enjoy.
- Gently petting their head and chin
- Hand-feeding favorite treats
- Letting them snuggle on your lap or chest
- Giving them chin scratches
While kissing may not get a positive reaction, your bearded dragon will learn to crave quality cuddle time.
Focus on the handling methods they instinctually understand as safe and comforting.
How Do You Tell If Your Bearded Dragon Is Mad At You?
Bearded dragons display clear body language when they are irritated or upset.
Here are some signs that your scaly friend is in a bad mood.
- Puffing out the throat – An angry beardie will make its beard extend to appear more intimidating.
- Blackened beard and body – The scales will darken as a visual warning.
- Arm waving or body bobbing – Quick hostile movements instead of slow content ones.
- Hissing or gaping – Loud hisses or an open mouth shows aggression.
- Trying to run away – Attempting to flee handling is a sign of fear.
- Scratching or tail whipping – Frantic motions directed at you convey annoyance.
- Closing or squinting eyes – Tightly shut eyes while handling means high stress.
- Lethargy after handling – Excess remaining still shows previous distress.
To avoid aggravating your bearded dragon, stay calm, move slowly, and give them ample gentle handling. Read their body language when interacting.
If you notice angry signs, give them space to re-adjust. With time and trust, those mad beardie behaviors will be rare occurrences.
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Final Thoughts
After reading this article, you should have a much better understanding of the meaning behind your bearded dragon’s stares.
While we can’t know exactly what goes on in those reptilian brains, their body language provides clues into their attention, moods, and bond with you.
A stare can convey that your bearded dragon is intrigued by your movements or regulating temperature.
It can demonstrate submission, excitement, stress, or pure contentment.
With time and experience, you’ll learn to interpret the nuances of your individual dragon’s gaze.
Always observe your bearded dragon closely when they focus their eyes on you, other pets, or objects.
Take note of beard color, body posture, and any additional behaviors. Take a curious and caring approach to understanding what captures your dragon’s interest.
Take time to make positive associations too.
The more your bearded dragon stares in relaxed openness, the more comfortable they feel in your presence.
Those long gazes truly mean your scaly friend is happy, healthy, and trusts you completely.
FAQs
Do bearded dragons miss their owners?
While bearded dragons don’t experience emotions the same way humans do, they can recognize and become accustomed to their owners and routines.
Bearded dragons that are handled regularly will often show excitement when their owner approaches by scratching at the tank glass or watching attentively.
Where do bearded dragons like to be stroked?
Bearded dragons enjoy gentle strokes along their head, chin, cheeks and down the spine.
Stick to petting the upper body and avoid sensitive areas like the tail and underside.
Why does my bearded dragon sleep on me?
Bearded dragons are cold-blooded reptiles and rely on external heat sources to maintain their body temperature.
When given the opportunity, they will often sleep on or near owners because the human body provides a warm, comfortable basking spot.
Should I cuddle my bearded dragon?
Occasional gentle cuddling can be positive for bonding with your bearded dragon.
Limit sessions to about 10-15 minutes to avoid overhandling stress.
Support their whole body, pay attention to signals of discomfort, and keep handling low key. Some beardies enjoy snuggling more than others.
Resources – (for further reading)
National Geographic – Bearded dragons: facts and photos
Bush Heritage Australia – Bearded Dragons
Maya’s love for reptiles started in her teens with a pet snake. It grew into a collection of geckos, snakes, and more. She also cares for birds and cats, making a cozy home menagerie.