I have a six week old Beardie. He is my first so I am still learning about these guys.
It seems like his belly changes colors. One day it looks all white (tan) and sometimes it looks like it has a pattern on it.
Actually, their bellies and chest can turn darker when they are trying to absorb more heat quicker. Their moods can also affect their color. And no, you aren't seeing things.
Actually, their bellies and chest can turn darker when they are trying to absorb more heat quicker. Their moods can also affect their color. And no, you aren't seeing things.
So, if it's related to mood, is he in a good mood or bad mood when he displays colors? :?
He seems content and happy when he does it, but I'm no expert on reptile mood!
The "patterns" mean they're stressed. It might just mean they're colder than they'd like, or that he doesn't feel like being held, or that you're 5 minutes late on feeding him. It's not really anything to worry about with babies unless they're doing it constantly.
As mentioned, the darkened belly & chest off & on is really nothing to worry about with a baby as long as it isn't like that continuously. You will see a babies color change several times a day so don't be too concerned. :wink:
Agreed, you only have to worry if the marks are there all the time and are accompanied by other behavioural changes in your dragon. "Stress marks" is really a misnomer, they're a normal part of the dragon's colouration under most circumstances.
I've noticed that Porter will have a nice, white belly, and then after he snarfs down a dozen crix his belly gets the rings. Is he stressing the bloated, "I can't believe I ate the whole thing" feeling? :shock:
His belly is really quite elaborate and beautiful!