Bearded dragons are reptiles that have become popular pets in recent years due to their docile nature and relatively easy care requirements. One behavior that is often observed in bearded dragons is yawning. But why do bearded dragons yawn?
There are a few different theories as to why bearded dragons might yawn. One possibility is that it could be a way for them to regulate their body temperature. Another possibility is that it helps them to stretch out their jaw muscles, which could get sore from all the eating they do!
It’s also possible that yawning has something to do with social interactions between beardies – perhaps it’s a way of showing dominance or submission towards another dragon.
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Why Do Bearded Dragon Yawn?
The act of yawning is thought to be an evolutionary remnant from our reptilian ancestors. It’s a reflex that helps to regulate our body temperature by cooling down the brain (which is why we often feel the need to yawn when we’re tired). Yawning is contagious in humans, which isn’t the case with bearded dragons. 😛
So if you see your pet dragon gaping its mouth open, don’t worry – they’re not trying to catch a glimpse of your tonsils! Whatever the reason is, one thing is clear: yawning is perfectly normal behavior for these animals, so there’s no need to worry if you see your pet doing it from time to time.
How Often Do Bearded Dragons Yawn?
There is no set answer to this question as it can vary from beardie to beardie. Some might yawn several times a day, while others may only do it once every few days. If your bearded dragon seems to be yawning more often than normal, it could be a sign that something is wrong and you should take them to see a vet just in case.
Bearded dragons tend to yawn more when they are basking in the heat of their artificial habitat. This makes sense when you consider that one of the possible reasons why they yawn is to regulate their body temperature!
So if you notice your pet gaping its mouth open while enjoying some time under the heat lamp, don’t be alarmed – they’re probably just trying to stay comfortable.
Which Reptiles yawn?
As far as we know, all species of bearded dragons do yawn. This includes the Eastern bearded dragon, Rankin’s dragon, Kimberley beardie, Western bearded dragon, Nullarbor dragons, and Central beardies. So if you’re ever unsure about whether a particular type of bearded dragon is yawning or not, chances are it probably is!
However, this behavior has not been observed in other reptiles such as snakes and lizards. It’s possible that they don’t yawn because they don’t have the same facial muscles that we do (which are necessary for yawning), but this is just speculation at this point. So, in the opposite scenario, if you’re ever unsure about whether a particular reptile is yawning or not, chances are it probably isn’t!
Can it be dangerous?
Yawning is perfectly normal and healthy behavior for bearded dragons. Nevertheless, if your pet seems to be yawning more often than usual, it could be a sign that something is wrong and you should take them to see a vet just in case. Also, be sure to keep an eye on your dragon if it yawns while basking in the heat, as this could be a sign that they’re trying to regulate their body temperature and might be getting too hot.
Conclusion
In conclusion, bearded dragons yawn for a variety of reasons such as regulating their body temperature or stretching out their jaw muscles. It’s important to remember that yawning is perfectly normal behavior for these animals, so there’s no need to worry if you see your pet doing it from time to time.
However, if you notice your dragon yawning more often than usual, it’s always best to take them to see a vet just in case something else might be going on.
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