Why Is My Bearded Dragon Head Butting The Glass?

When you notice your bearded dragon head rubbing against or scratching the glass, you’re probably curious as to why. Glass butting or scratching by bearded dragons is not typical of pet behavior, but it can be quite harmless at times. Bearded dragons usually communicate with humans in a variety of ways. 

Arm waving and head bobbing are signs that your bearded dragon is trying to communicate something. Though head butting or scratching the glass may be unusual behavior for your beardies, it is acceptable on occasion. They usually do it to attract attention, or because they are bored, hungry, or have pooped. 

Your bearded dragon is playing with the glass for a variety of reasons. Let’s talk about those reasons and how to keep them from doing so in this article. Continue reading to learn more.

7 Reasons Why Your Bearded Dragon Plays With The Glass

Glass surfing or head butting the glass is a behaviour in which your bearded dragon gets close to the glass to communicate something. However, they are frequently communicating discomfort or inconvenience rather than an emergency. You don’t have to take drastic measures to get them back to their normal mood during these stages. 

All you have to do is figure out what they’re trying to say and take the steps necessary to make them feel better. There are six reasons why your bearded dragon is bothering you with the glass, as listed below.

1. When They See Their Reflection

This is a common occurrence, especially in the case of pets. Pets and glasses have a long history of interaction, and when a pet sees their reflection in the glass, they react. Dogs typically bark, whereas bearded dragons either head-butt or scratch the glass. 

These actions indicate that they are aware of the presence of a new pet and are alarmed by it. Scratching and head-butting are two ways they try to fight it off. It may take some time for them to adjust to the reflection. 

Your bearded dragons should not feel threatened when they realize what they’re seeing is just a reflection, but this is impossible to achieve. Furthermore, your bearded dragons may not recognize the presence of glass and go on the hunt for prey when they see the reflection. As a result, get a covered tank or tanks with non-reflective glasses to avoid this situation. You can also choose a scenic beauty theme that your beardies will enjoy.

2. When Their Environment Is Disrupted

When something is wrong with their habitat, your bearded dragon will react with a head butt. Bearded dragons prefer a lovely, peaceful environment, and they will react quickly if they notice something is wrong. They are likely reacting because they feel threatened or because they require some changes in order to feel at ease. 

When they see any animal larger than themselves, bearded dragons, like most pet animals, feel threatened, but they are fine with humans. If your beardies see your pet, such as a dog or a cat, through the glass, they may feel vulnerable and explain it to you with a scratch or a head butt.

Poor lighting, new objects in the tank, excessive heat, outdoor views, and other factors can make your bearded dragon feel threatened and exhibit abnormal behavior. You can inspect every component in your bearded dragon’s environment and remove any that are causing them discomfort. They will feel at ease and return to their normal routines only after you have done the necessary things.

3. When The Temperature Is Constant

Bearded dragons require two different temperatures to survive. To keep your bearded dragons from going crazy, keep the tank at two different temperatures: moderate heat and cold. When they are trapped in a hot environment for an extended period of time and have no way to get out, they will most likely express themselves through the glass. This is also true when they are overly cold.

Both levels should have moderate temperatures to help them thermoregulate themselves and stay calm. Out of frustration from the heat, they may head butt or scratch the glass. You should maintain a temperature of 110-115 degrees Fahrenheit in their basking area and less than 85 degrees Fahrenheit in the rest of the habitat.

4. When They Get Bored

Pets are more easily bored than we might think, and when they are, they will make it known. Bearded dragons are no different, and if they are kept in the cage for too long, they will become bored. When your beardies have been kept in the cage for several hours and want to escape, they scratch the glass to let you know. You can take them out and spend time with them during these times. 

They could benefit from some one-on-one time with you. You can make it more enjoyable by including some activities that you can enjoy with your beardies. Keep them out of the cage for as long as possible; they will become bored and frustrated and will begin to dislike the environment. Keep them out of trouble and have some fun with them now and then.

5. When They Are Hungry

Another factor that may cause your bearded dragon to head-butt or scratch the glass is hunger. You can keep your bearded dragons from becoming hungry if you stick to a prescribed feeding schedule. Prepare the food as soon as they scratch the glass.

6. When They Want You To Clean Up

This is frequently the cause of your bearded dragon crashing into the glass. They signal through the glass when they’ve pooped and want you to clean it up right away. Allowing them to remain in that environment for an extended period of time can cause them to become grumpy.

7. When They Are Going To Lay Eggs

If you have a female bearded dragon, scratching the glass may indicate that she is about to lay eggs. If you pay attention to your pet’s egg-laying cycle, you’ll be able to figure out why they’re calling you. When bearded dragons reach the age of two, they begin to lay eggs. Understand that when the time comes and your bearded dragon hits the glass, they will lay eggs.

How To Prevent Your Bearded Dragons From Hitting The Glass

Bearded dragons prefer to be in their own company and avoid being disturbed at all costs. When you provide them with what they require, they will not bother you with scratches on the glasses. Here are three ways to keep your beardies from crashing into the glass.

Go For A Bigger Tank

When your beardies are young, a small tank should suffice, but as they grow older, they will require more space. You should replace the small tank with a larger one to give your bearded dragons more room to play.

Improve The Lighting

Bearded dragons should be kept in climates with ideal temperatures and lighting. They might not like it if the tank is dark and cold. As a result, the next time your bearded dragon smacks the glass, remember that the lighting needs to be improved.

Take Them Out

Don’t keep your bearded dragons cooped up in the tank, missing out on all the fun. Regularly take them out and play with them. Give them new toys and activities to play with, and they’ll have a great time outside.

Finally

When they are uncomfortable in their habitat, bearded dragons will headbutt, scratch, or hit the glass. However, their actions do not indicate that they are ill. If you notice any symptoms that could indicate illness, you should consult a veterinarian. Your bearded dragons will usually do the head butt to get your attention and communicate something, so have fun with them and keep them active.