Ethology: Although no studies or experiments
could be found, there are a wide variety of behaviors bearded dragons display
that owners/breeders/reptile specialists have come to associate with emotion.
One behavior bearded dragons are known for is “black bearding.” The neck and
chin area will puff out and turn a shade of black. This behavior often occurs
when one feels “threatened” or “uncomfortable,” such as a male coming in
contact with another male or with an unknown or large animal.
They also are known to “wave” their arms,
especially young dragons. The dragon will lift one of its arms, and wave it
around in a circular motion. Most often, you will see young beardies or females
waving to other larger bearded dragons or other animal species. Many believe
this is a sign of recognition of the other, and possibly a sign of submission.
These behaviors are useful to their survival.
The “black bearding” is useful because it makes the bearded dragon look bigger
and more threatening. This will cause predators to think twice about going
after it. The “waving” behavior is also useful because it helps show submission
within the species. If an individual shows submission, there is less likely to
be a fight between two dragons and consequently less likely of an altercation
to end in death.
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