ok, i have 2 bearded dragons, a male and female. they're both babies, the male 2 or 3 inches longer than the female. I have had them together for several months, and just lately i noticed the male was chasing the female, laying on her, and sometimes biting her neck and tail. no blood was shed, but there were marks. They are too young to breed, so... Also, my male head bobs all the time and the female just waves back. A few days ago, the female has spent all her time in the cave i put in, and sleeps all day. I have noticed some nose crud too x) she eats real well like normal, and she drinks water, I'm just worried she's getting stressed out or something. they live in a 55 gallon together. she is pretty wall too, and the male just hit his growth spurt, he's pretty big compared to her. but she's eating fine and going to the bathroom so should i separate them? is she just a little sick or is it something to be worried about? all answers are appreciated
Hi Mia....get ready to set up a new tank ! The behavior will continue + escalate, and he can mate her before either of them are adult/breeding size. This won't hurt him like it will her....she may become stunted, plus a male that becomes breeding age may harass the female non stop. In the wild she could get away....not so in captivity. There's also the danger of mutilation since many beardies, large or small will bite a tankmate out of the blue.
So yes, the best move is to set him up in a new tank and let her stay in the " home " she's used to, so she doesn't get stressed.