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Strange scales on tail

22 13:32:30

Question

Lumpy scales
Hi, I have attached an image of my 18month old bearded dragons tail showing some strange scales. It started off with 2 scales appearing to be deformed one of which fell off and then seemed normal, since this the central scale has formed a hole in it and the scales around it seem to be growing. when the area is touched she seems to jump as if in pain. have you any idea what this could be, Many thanks

Answer
Jamie,

Sorry for the delayed response. It does, indeed appear to be strange and unnatural. At this point, I just don't know whether to consider it an external injury from an external source or something not caused by trauma. Can you please give me some information about her living conditions:

Does she live with cagemates?
Has she been left unattended with other pets?
Has the area ever bled?
What type of cage? Are there any sharp protrusions, ex. metal wire, staples?
How long has this been going on?

At this point, I am wondering if it is a puncture wound from another animal or sharp object or considering the possibility of a parasite burrowing under the scales.

I cannot speculate with even a probability of certainty based on a picture with no other information or without seeing the animal.

Sincerely,

Sara J. Gwerder
President
Raptor Rescue Iguana Sanctuary
Shreveport, LA
www.RaptorRescue.org