Do bearded dragon stress marks go away?

Answered by Phillip Nicastro

I can definitely provide a detailed answer to the question of whether bearded dragon stress marks go away.

From my personal experience as a bearded dragon owner, I have encountered stress marks on my dragon a few times. These stress marks are usually seen as dark lines or patches on the belly or underside of the dragon. They can sometimes be faint or more prominent, depending on the level of stress the dragon is experiencing.

It is important to note that stress marks on bearded dragons are quite common and can be triggered by various factors. Some common stressors include changes in the environment, such as moving to a new enclosure or being introduced to new tank mates, loud noises, handling, temperature fluctuations, or even changes in their daily routine.

However, the good news is that in most cases, these stress marks are temporary and tend to disappear once the source of stress is removed or the dragon becomes accustomed to the new situation. For example, if you have recently moved your bearded dragon to a new enclosure and notice stress marks, they will likely fade away as your dragon settles into its new surroundings.

In my experience, stress marks on my bearded dragon typically disappear within a few days to a couple of weeks. It is important to monitor the dragon’s behavior during this time to ensure that the stress is indeed resolving and not persisting or worsening.

If you notice that the stress marks are not going away or if your bearded dragon is exhibiting other signs of stress, such as loss of appetite, lethargy, or aggression, it may be necessary to investigate further and address any potential underlying issues. In such cases, it is always a good idea to consult with a reptile veterinarian who can provide expert advice and guidance.

To summarize, while finding stress marks on your bearded dragon may be concerning, they are typically not a cause for serious concern. Most stress marks will go away on their own as the stressor is resolved or the dragon adjusts to the new situation. However, it is important to monitor your dragon’s behavior and seek professional help if the stress marks persist or are accompanied by other worrisome symptoms.