Introduction
When we think about bearded dragons, we usually imagine tan or sand-colored reptiles. Despite that, you will be surprised to discover that this reptile can come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. According to reptile experts, it is called mutations or morphs.
In the world of reptiles, the rarer the variant, the more expensive the animal becomes. Usually, bearded dragons have a metamorphosis. Some of the bests are sand fire, paradox, hypo, and red blood. Keep in mind that each morph has a different trait and color. For instance, sand fire is dull orange, red-orange is bright orange-red, and paradox comes with different color patches.
Aside from having different colors, bearded dragon morphs refer to different beaks, scales, head shapes, patterns, and more. It can also explain the dragon’s body type and appearance. Rare morphs are more expensive because they are harder to breed than ordinary morphs.
We know that you are planning to buy an affectionate pet like a bearded dragon. Hence, we decided to publish an article for one of the most attractive morphs of this reptile – the paradox bearded dragon.
Pro Tip: Here’s the best multivitamin supplement for paradox bearded dragons.
What Is a Paradox Bearded Dragon?
Paradox bearded dragons boast a uniquely patterned morph. They came from a crossbreed, a combination of several different morphs.
Regarding the appearance, paradox bearded dragons are obvious to spots because they have blotches of bright colors throughout their bodies. According to some breeders, these dragons look like splattered paints without any pattern all over their bodies.
We are deeply in love with paradox bearded dragons because they are some of the most beautiful, rarest, and sought-after reptiles worldwide.
For instance, a paradox bearded dragon has a base color of red with paradox spots of blue over most of her body and purple on her arms. It’s gorgeous. As this paradox dragon matures, the red and blue colors will usually compete within the scale and spikes, leaving some blue or green.
In case you didn’t know, most breeders refer to this morph as the “purple paradox”. However, the word “purple” is only a name to make these cute dragons more interesting. All in all, they are one of the coolest bearded dragons out there!
Giving Birth to Paradox Bearded Dragons
Pro Tip: We highly suggest this basking light for pregnant paradox bearded dragons.
When paradox bearded dragons give birth, their eggs do not look like a paradox. They usually start looking like an ordinary baby dragons. The color shifts will only begin after a few months. Once finished, you will notice the huge difference and transition of a baby and adult paradox bearded dragon in color.
Our research shows that the paradox morph is a product of breeding hypo, translucent, witblits, and zero dragons, resulting in too translucent scales with white, purple, or blue patches.
Do Paradox Bearded Dragons Like Human Contact?
Yes, most bearded dragons enjoy being held by their owners. They know how to recognize, love, and cherish their owners’ touch. As paradox bearded dragons grow, they also become more comfortable and relaxed with a human touch, meaning some baby and juvenile dragons might be a little jittery at first. Hence, we suggest you hold and touch your dragon to build a friendly bond with them.
Although these reptiles occasionally go up to their owners for attention, they possess markedly relaxed and tame dispositions. Besides that, bearded dragons are solitary creatures, meaning they only act based on instincts and dominance. If you want to establish a strong relationship with your little friend, continue showing love to them. Your pet will surely love you back.
They may not recognize it as love, but they feel the pleasure you give them, especially when you feed them that fat and juicy mealworms!
Do Bearded Dragons Show Affection?
Paradox bearded dragons are among very few reptiles that show their feelings. Usually, they only display gregarious behavior. Despite that, they can easily warm up to their owners and eagerly recognize their presence.
According to reptile experts, paradox bearded dragons are not affectionate, but they feel physical feelings, such as pleasure, suffering, negative feelings, and positive feelings.
Pro Tip: We highly recommend this hangout décor to make your beardie’s tank homier.
Unlike dogs and cats, paradox bearded dragons require less interaction time since they only need specialized environments. We all know that canines and kitties are vocal and love playful activities, unlike any bearded dragon.
What Can Paradox Bearded Dragons Feel?
According to researchers, paradox bearded dragons can experience emotional states, including:
- Anxiety
- Distress
- Excitement
- Fear
- Frustration
- Pain
- Stress
- Suffering
It means that our bearded dragons can feel hurt, too. If you have been a bearded dragon owner for some time now, you would understand. If they are stressed or are not in a good mood, they can exhibit dark colors and may not eat, which is bad for their health and can lead to a shorter lifespan.
Hence, if you want to keep your bearded dragon happy and healthy for many years, you need to treat them well, build an appropriate habitat setup, and allow them to enjoy their time wherever they like it.
How to Pet Your Paradox Bearded Dragon?
Paradox bearded dragons can melt our hearts, but do they enjoy it? It can be easy to recognize when other pets, such as cats and dogs, want to cuddle. But when it comes to reptiles like bearded dragons, it can be quite harder and more challenging to determine.
Although these reptiles are dominant and independent, they can still appreciate human companions. However, how your bearded dragon responds to you depends on your personality and treatment. Keep in mind that these little reptiles are quick learners. Therefore, they can associate your sound and presence with the previous experience you brought toward them, whether good or otherwise.
Throughout the years, many reptile experts have found evidence that bearded dragons, including the paradox ones, are sentient beings, meaning they are conscious and can feel positive and negative feelings, meaning we should be more alert to our behaviors toward them, especially when they seek our attention.
Despite that, not all bearded owners are the same. Some can be aloof of a relationship, while others want to experience a close and friendly bond.
Many of us love cuddling with our bearded dragons on the couch or even on our beds. While it is awfully difficult to resist and cute, we should put our pet’s safety first. Keep in mind that bedroom and couch are not the best places to cuddle with reptiles.
So, how and where should we pet our paradox bearded dragons? For the reasons we discussed above, we highly recommend you exercise caution when petting your paradox bearded dragons, especially if it is your first time.
To ensure safety for both you and your cute little pet, make sure you are in the right environment and observe their body language. If it closes its eyes and sinks to relaxation, then your pet is enjoying the bond. They can also lick your hand if he loves the petting sessions. Remember that licking in the bearded dragon is a surefire sign of endearment. So cute!
So, how should we pet our paradox bearded dragon?
Step 1. Let your bearded dragon get used to your presence
This step is the main answer If you don’t spend more time with your beardie, they won’t feel comfortable. If they are unfamiliar with your presence, they won’t play with you. These bearded dragons may be standoffish at first, but as they get used to our presence, they become more playful and comfortable.
As we mentioned above, most paradox bearded dragons enjoy being held. However, if you have recently introduced your pet into your home, we do not recommend you to stick and play with him right away since it can make him become fearful and try to bite you.
Instead, we recommend you start slowly but surely. Simply begin by walking up and watching it roam around its cage.
Step 2. Open the enclosure and play with your dragon
After becoming familiar with your presence, the next step is to open his enclosure and begin attempting to pet him. To draw him near you, you can give him treats like dubia roaches. However, make sure to do this gently to keep him comfortable and relaxed.
After your beardie takes the treat, you can slowly and gently touch his head to his tail while observing body language.
Conclusion
Taking care of a paradox bearded dragon is indeed an enjoyable and fulfilling experience for both you and your pet. It is essential for your beardie to like you so they can live a happy, healthy, and stress-free life.
Paradox bearded dragons are almost similar to other morphs. They are all easy to take care of, smart, and fun to be with. Sometimes they can be confusing, but hopefully, this paradox bearded dragon guide has helped you. Happy bonding!
