Is my bearded dragon's flattening and digging outside his tank normal?

With that black beard, he does seem stressed. Check temps in the cage. Low temps can affect activity in reptiles. Survey the area in and around the enclosure for any negative stimuli. This may include loud noises, strong vibrations, cold drafts or high traffic. reduce or eliminate any if found. You can review dragon care at the links below. http://www.anapsid.org/bearded.html http://www.reptilesmagazine.com/Care-Sheets/Lizards/Bearded-Dragon/

Check the temperature in her enclosure. Ideal would be about 76 F (24C) on the cool side to about 86 F (30C) n the warm side. Her basking spot should range between 90 and 100 F (32-37.7 C). Young beardies should not be kept on sand as it can pose a risk of impaction or obstruction if they inadvertently ingest enough during feeding. Use reptile carpet, slate or paper towels until she is older or feed her outside of the enclosure. If the behavior persists, have her examined by your veterinarian or an experienced herp vet to diagnose infection or injury.

It may be stress related. Survey the area around his enclosure for any negative stimuli. Massage his abdomen during the baths to stimulate defecation in case he's a bit constipated. If the behavior persists or if he develops any lethargy or loss of appetite, then have him examined by your herp veterinarian.

It is best to keep them away from direct sunlight since it can cause tank temperature to rise quickly and to dangerous levels. It is also best to keep them away from drafts. He is likely head bobbing at his reflection as a challenge to the "strange" lizard he sees. You can use a tank surround to cut down on reflections. Captive beardies can be bred year round, however in the wild they typically breed in the spring.

Thanks for reaching out about your bearded dragon. Bearded dragons do not hibernate, so concerns would be around being too cold or being sick. It the environmental temperature is correct, a veterinarian should be visited to aid in the diagnosis and treatment. Good luck.

He may want to get out for a bit. He may also see his reflection in the glass. An enclosure that is too small may cause stress which could account for the behavior. Check in and around the cage for any negative stimuli. Reduce or eliminate any if found. You can use a tank surround to limit his view. Plain paper taped to the tank about halfway up the sides also work. Take him out a couple times daily for some exercise and playtime. Be sure the cage is large enough for him and add a hide on both sides of the tank.

Make sure his cage is large enough. A 20 gallon tank will be sufficient for now (if that's what you have) but as he grows, you will need to move him into a larger enclosure. Provide multiple hiding boxes and plants (real or fake) for privacy. You can also use cage wraps or backgrounds to provide additional privacy. He can come out of the cage also but be sure he does not get chilled or escape into a small crack or crevice.