Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hey this is more of a consultation than a cry for help, nevertheless I'd appreciate anyone else's input. I've caught, kept and studied herps, especially lizards for many years, in addition to owning a bearded dragon quite a few years ago. So today I purchased a baby from the nations largest and most reliable reptile retail outlet the "East Bay Vivarium". So, getting to the point.. this stunning juvenile appeared to be fine in the tank as he was playing with his brothers and sisters. It wasn't until I was driving home that I began to notice that he kept continually closing his eyes, the more disturbing thing being he kept closing one more than the other. I know that lizards often even in daytime close their eyes for periods, especially when basking. What concerns me is that it is excessive for this juvenile. Other than that he seems healthy and fit, he ate then dozen or so crickets we threw in. I'm debating whether or not to take him back tomorrow and exchange him for a lizard who can keep his eyes open. Yet still, I am disappointed as he is a stunning juvenile, his red phase stripes are already starting to come in. What would you guys do in my situation? I'd appreciate any input, thanks.
-Sam.

I think this is normal behavior. Beardies will close their eyes when they feel stress to make you disappear.

If he is eating normally and pooping normally and basking (in betweewn) then everything should be ok.

I wouldn't worry about it.
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Hangin with the Herps
ZZ

Don't give up on him yet. This is normal behavior for a young beardie going through the stress of moving to a new home. He may be stressed for a few days, and may not eat, but within a week if there is nothing else wrong with him he should perk up.
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Amanda
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2.0 bearded dragons (Ocho / Domo-kun)

0.1 kingsnake (Rio)
1.0 ferret (Playstation)
1.0 cat (Wally)
0.1 dog (Tima)

>>Hey this is more of a consultation than a cry for help, nevertheless I'd appreciate anyone else's input. I've caught, kept and studied herps, especially lizards for many years, in addition to owning a bearded dragon quite a few years ago. So today I purchased a baby from the nations largest and most reliable reptile retail outlet the "East Bay Vivarium". So, getting to the point.. this stunning juvenile appeared to be fine in the tank as he was playing with his brothers and sisters. It wasn't until I was driving home that I began to notice that he kept continually closing his eyes, the more disturbing thing being he kept closing one more than the other. I know that lizards often even in daytime close their eyes for periods, especially when basking. What concerns me is that it is excessive for this juvenile. Other than that he seems healthy and fit, he ate then dozen or so crickets we threw in. I'm debating whether or not to take him back tomorrow and exchange him for a lizard who can keep his eyes open. Yet still, I am disappointed as he is a stunning juvenile, his red phase stripes are already starting to come in. What would you guys do in my situation? I'd appreciate any input, thanks.
>>-Sam.
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Rob Talkington

if the place you got it from is "the nations largest and most reliable reptile retail outlet" what did they tell you when you asked them?

and out of curiousity, how big and how old is your baby?
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Bennett

Home of the Florida Orange
www.beardiedragon.com

They were closed long before i realized there was a problem. Thanks for the input guys. I decided I'm going to bring him in anyways and at leat see what they say about it. He's 4 weeks and super tiny by the way.

I don't think a "the nations largest and most reliable reptile retail outlet" would sell 4wk. old dragons. I'm assuming that is a self given title. lol

It's kind of an unwritten ethical rule. Don't sell until 6wk's.
Granted many sell before,,,it's just not a good practice. Most breeders don't do it unless they are sure they are going to someone who knows what they are doing. Such young dragons are not "out of the woods" yet.
"I'm not trying to step on anyones toes here"

What you are explaining is normal behavior. Now, if it isn't holding it's head up & not moving around, then I would be concerned.
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Joel R

Coming Soon!
www.SpikesAndScales.com

yeah, i know it is normal behavior guys! What concerns me is that he's doing it with only his right eye!

My dragon has always and will continue to close one eye if im on one side of her and she wants me gone. Or if she see's something that she doesnt like she will close just the one eye and keep a look out with the other eye. If your dragon is eatting, pooping and well hydrated with the proper heat and cooling zone, there is NOTHING wrong with your dragon. Each dragon has its own personality - some more shy then others. Give it time, its just a baby, and they are known to try "different" things out. An example of that is my dragon would practice puffing out its beard...for about 2 months. It didnt cause me to want to get rid of it! Be patient with your lil guy and you will see...with lots of care - your dragon will grow up to be just like everyone elses! Good luck!