In the wonder-filled world of bearded dragons, the unexpected often becomes the norm. Each encounter, each interaction, can open our eyes to a behavior that we’d have not imagined.
One such endearing, yet perplexing, behavioris when a bearded dragon licks you. Has this left you wondering, “What does it mean when such happens?”
Well, let’s get into this captivating topic and make sense of this charming Beardie behavior.
Bearded Dragons and Their Remarkable Tongues
To understand why a bearded dragon might take that friendly lick, it’s important first to marvel at the tool behind this behavior: the dragon’s tongue.
A bearded dragon’s tongue is unique in structure and function. It’s long, flat, and sticky—traits that serve a dual purpose. In feeding, this remarkable tongue darts out, catching unsuspecting prey in its sticky grasp.
It also plays an important role, which we’ll soon discover, in their interaction and exploration of the world.
A bearded dragon’s tongue is a radar of sorts, picking up and discerning between different textures, tastes, temperatures, and more. It’s their way of gaining information about their environment.
So, with our focus on breaking down Beardie licks, remember, that the tongue is more than just a feeding tool. It’s their multisensory, multifunctional explorer on hand… or rather, in mouth.
Why a Bearded Dragon Licks You?
If you could explore the world with some organ continually receiving signals, wouldn’t you? Bearded dragons do precisely that with their tongues.
Every lick is a moment of discovery, a moment of understanding their surroundings. This behavior harkens back to their wild ancestors who relied on their tongues for crucial information about their diverse environments.
In a sense, bearded dragons keep alive this legacy of their wild roots in every lick.
So, one thing to remember is that when a bearded dragon licks you, it’s not random or without cause. Instead, it’s their way of getting to know you better.
Each lick allows them to gauge your scent, taste, texture, and temperature, giving them a more comprehensive understanding of who you are.
But the question looms still: what exactly could they understand just by licking you? Let’s explore further.
Understanding Scent and Taste When Bearded Dragons Lick You
When a bearded dragon licks you, they are sampling your scent and taste. Just like we use our taste buds to distinguish between flavors, bearded dragons use their tongues to discern diverse tastes.
Given that our skin can have a variety of subtle flavors depending on what we’ve touched or if we’ve recently applied any lotion or cream, each lick gives your dragon a chance to understand these different flavors.
Furthermore, scent plays a significant role as they lick you. Every person has a unique smell, and this distinct scent adds to a bearded dragon’s portfolio of you.
It’s akin to a form of identification, a way for your dragon to recognize you among others.
Analyzing Texture and Temperature Through Licking
In addition to taste and smell, the feel of your skin and your body temperature are also central to a bearded dragon’s perception. Their tongue serves as an excellent tactile receptor, capturing information about the textures it encounters.
It’s also sensitive to temperature changes. So, when a bearded dragon licks you, they get a feel of your texture and gauges your body warmth, both essential components of their sensory exploration.
The Message of a Lick
Now that we’ve reflected on what a lick can tell a bearded dragon, let’s piece together what it means when your bearded dragon licks you. In essence, it is a gesture of curiosity and familiarity.
They’re trying to understand who you are, to distinguish you from others, and ascertain that you’re a friend, not a foe.
If your bearded dragon has been licking you frequently, it could indicate their comfort level with you. They’re not just used to your presence but actively trying to understand you better.
It’s almost as if they’re saying, “Hello, friend! Nice to see you again!”
However, sometimes, excessive or continuous licking can indicate stress or discomfort. If you notice this coupled with other signs of stress like glass surfing, a darkened beard, or loss of appetite, it’s worth investigating to ensure your Beardie isn’t in any distress.
The Results of the Licks
What does this communicative licking mean for you as a bearded dragon parent? Primarily, it speaks volumes about your bond. The more your bearded dragon licks you, the more familiar you become.
Over time, this ‘scent and taste memory’ of you can contribute to your bearded dragon recognizing you and feeling more secure and comfortable in your presence.
It’s a vital piece in the puzzle of establishing a strong, beautiful bond with your dragon.
Moreover, understanding this behavior helps you interpret your pet’s actions better. Instead of writing it off as a quirky habit, you now know that it’s a process of understanding, a token of familiarity.
Conclusion
A bearded dragon’s world is full of complex details and shades of behaviors. Each trait, each habit, offers a window into their amazing world.
Licking, as we’ve discovered, is a prime example of such a behavior. Harnessing their skilled tongues, bearded dragons partake in a multisensory exploration with each lick. They’re not just simple swipes of the tongue, but conscious, curious attempts to get to know you better.
So, the next time your bearded dragon decides to give you a friendly lick, remember that it’s more than a quirky behavior—it’s a testament to their inquisitive nature, a celebration of their sensory prowess, and a significant step in building a bond with their human caregiver.
Embrace it, for you’ve been recognized in their unique, reptilian way! As a caretaker, you’re now privy to a captivating aspect of bearded dragon behavior—one that encapsulates the charm and intrigue embodied in these wonderful creatures.
After all, each lick is a stamp of Beardie approval, a step closer to a strengthened bond, and a fond note in the shared narrative between you two.
In essence, it’s the Bearded Dragon’s way of saying, “Hello, my friend, I know, and remember you!”