Longitudinal Observations of Cohabitation Dynamics and Growth in Captive Central Bearded Dragons (Pogona vitticeps)

This independent observational study examines social tolerance and cohabitation dynamics in three captive bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps) housed under consistent environmental conditions over an extended period of time. The study was designed to explore commonly cited claims that bearded dragons are strictly solitary by documenting behavioral and physiological responses observed during prolonged cohabitation. Data were collected through repeated, non-invasive longitudinal observations using a qualitative ethogram to ensure consistency across observation periods. Behavioral interactions, spatial use, feeding behaviors, and indicators of stress or tolerance were recorded descriptively to assess within-subject and between-subject patterns over time. Environmental variables were maintained consistently to minimize confounding influences and support longitudinal comparison. Observed outcomes suggest variability in social tolerance among individuals, with periods of apparent coexistence alongside behaviors consistent with dominance or avoidance. Findings are presented as descriptive observations that contribute to discussion surrounding social tolerance and cohabitation in captive settings, rather than as evidence of causal relationships or generalized species-level behavior. This study is limited by a small sample size (n = 3), which restricts generalizability. Results should therefore be interpreted as exploratory and descriptive in nature. Despite these limitations, the study provides a structured longitudinal assessment of cohabitation dynamics and highlights the importance of behavioral monitoring when evaluating assumptions about reptile social behavior in captive contexts.