Why does my bearded dragon glass surf outside her tank when near it?

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.

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.

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.

Flattening out, or pancaking, can be a fear response. He may feel uncomfortable or stressed outside of his enclosure for long periods of time. This response is sometimes accompanied by gaping (opening his mouth wide). It can also be an attempt to create more surface area to increase heat absorption. If he is away from a heat source for too long, he may cool off.

As long as it isn't bleeding or spreading, you can try managing it at home. Clean it with diluted betadine or chlorhexidine solution. Let it dry then apply a dab of triple antibiotic ointment. Use paper towels for substrate and change them daily until the spot heals. If it doen't heal, see your veterinarian or an experienced herp vet. For the glass surfing, try rearranging the enclosures. Confirm proper environmental parameters. Survey the area around them for any negative stimuli. Eliminate or decrease any if found. You can tape a tank surround (or paper) on the sides to limit views and reflections.

The change in environment may have caused her some stress resulting in a bit of flightiness or aggression. Gradually re-acclimate her to you again. Start slow and easy by simply sitting near her enclosure. Progress to placing your hand in the enclosure for ever increasing periods of time, then to enticing her with a treat. Eventually, you should be able to handle her again. Check environmental parameters to ensure adequate heat and lighting. Maintain a clean cage and proper diet. She maybe approaching a shed which could make her grouchy. The period between 6 and 8 months for most dragons can also be a "grouchy" time....think teenager attitude and behavior. Be patient though, it will pass and she should settle down again.

Use a tank background/surround to limit his view. Plain paper can also be taped to the outside of the tank. Provide a hide on each side of the enclosure. Allow for some "playtime" outside of the cage daily.