stress lines.

[Elisa245]

So I bought a new beardie and it always looks like he has stress lines. Idk if maybe thats how his skin is, but even under the basking light I can see the lines. Is that normal? I just got him 4 days ago, so maybe he is still getting use to his new tank. Theres nothing really wrong with him. He’s a healthy beardie. I just would feel bad if hes always stressed.

 

[Taterbug]

Relocation stress is a strong possibility.
Some settle in right away, others take some time adjusting. If his environment is right, give him a few days to relax.


Is he eating well? Appetite is a good indication of stress, as skin color can change for other reasons as well.

Stress marks don't always mean stress. He could be moody, a little cool or even needing to take a poop.

Also, Dragons will darken their skin to absorb heat and UVB. Is his basking spot warm enough and the right UVB bulb (tube) being used? Mine will get darker (complete with full stress marks) if he is too lazy to move closer to the heat bulb.

 

[Elisa245]

Ohhhh. Wow I didnt know that. Very interesting. Yes, he is a great eater! I think I also forgot to mention that hes shedding. So he could be moody over that. And basking light is warm enough, and UVB (mine is a tube) is about 6 inches away from him.