Why Is My Bearded Dragon’s Neck Black?
Bearded dragons, or Pogona, are one of the most popular pet lizards. These amazing reptiles can show a range of colors, including yellow, orange, red and black. So, why is the neck of some bearded dragons black?
Diet
The color of a bearded dragon’s skin is largely determined by their diet. In the wild, bearded dragons feed on different types of insects, crustaceans and fruits, each of which contain various vitamins, minerals and pigments. When these nutrients are digested, they’re absorbed into the skin, causing a change in color. The more varied the diet, the brighter the color.
Sunlight
Another factor that can influence a bearded dragon’s skin color is exposure to sunlight. Bearded dragons do best when they get 12-14 hours of sunlight each day. This helps their bodies produce the necessary hormones, vitamins and minerals, which are then converted into pigments. If they’re not getting enough light, their skin may become darker.
Melanism
In some cases, the darkening of a bearded dragon’s neck is caused by a condition known as melanism. Melanism is a genetic mutation which causes an animal’s skin to become dark and thick. This condition is more common in some breeds of bearded dragons than others, and has been known to cause the neck to become almost black.
Treatment
If your bearded dragon’s neck is turning black, there are a few things you can do to help.
- Improve the diet: Make sure your beardie is eating a variety of foods to ensure they are getting all the necessary nutrients for vibrant coloration.
- Provide adequate sunlight: Provide up to 14 hours of UVA and UVB light every day to ensure your lizard is getting the necessary vitamins and minerals.
- See a vet: If the blackening is more severe, it’s best to take your lizard to the vet to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
To keep your bearded dragon looking and feeling its best, it’s important to make sure they have a healthy diet and plenty of time in the sun. If you notice any blackening of their neck, it’s best to talk to your vet to rule out any medical conditions.
2. Could the blackness on my bearded dragon’s neck be a sign of illness?
It is possible that the blackness on your bearded dragon’s neck could be a sign of illness. If you are concerned, it is best to take your pet to the vet for a check-up to make sure that there is no underlying medical condition or problem.
5. Is the blackness on my bearded dragon’s neck a permanent condition?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to determine if the blackness on the bearded dragon’s neck is permanent without further evaluation by a veterinarian. Bearded dragons can suffer from various skin disorders and discoloration, and a physical examination by a veterinarian will be necessary to accurately diagnose and treat the condition.
1. What is causing my bearded dragon’s neck to turn black?
There are a few potential causes for your bearded dragon’s neck turning black. The most common cause is a fungal infection or improper basking temperatures. Other causes could include stress, improper diet, or bacterial infection. If you are concerned, it is best to schedule an appointment with your reptile veterinarian for an assessment and treatment plan.