Black Spots On Bearded Dragons: 9 Possible Reasons

As owners, we worry when something strange happens to our bearded dragon. One of the things that can happen to them is black spots.

Black spots can appear on bearded dragons for many reasons, but fortunately, in most cases it’s not a cause for concern. However, black spots may also sometimes indicate a severe health issue.

Causes of Black Spots on Bearded Dragons

1. Stress Marks

When a bearded dragon develops black spots or lines on its stomach, beard, or limbs, it’s usually a sign of stress. Black spots appearing due to stress are called stress marks.

If your beardie is stressed, the black spots will also be accompanied by lethargy and a lack of appetite.

Your bearded dragon could be stressed for several reasons, including:

• Incorrect temperature
• Incorrect humidity levels
• No hiding place
• New environment
• Having a small size enclosure
• Placing the enclosure in a busy area

The most common reason for stress marks is incorrect temperature. Ensure the enclosure has both warmer (100° degrees Fahrenheit ) and cooler (80° degrees Fahrenheit) sides.

Also, make sure your beardie is getting enough UVB.

Beardies can also get stressed when moved to a new location. If you have recently moved your beardie to a new location or enclosure, give it some time to adjust to the new environment.

Read more on why your bearded dragon might be stressed.

2. Freckle

Freckles are pigmentation (small spots) that mostly appear on people but can also appear on animals such as dogs and cats. Even though it doesn’t happen as often, bearded dragons may also have freckles.

Freckles on bearded dragons generally appear during the shedding process when an area on a scale is removed too early and does not develop properly.

As long as it does not change in size or move to other locations, it is not a cause for concern.

3. Abrasion

The black spot you see on your bearded dragon could simply be abrasions or scrapes.

Bearded dragons are active animals, and getting scrapes and abrasions is not uncommon. These scrapes are not a cause for concern if kept clean.<