Bearded Dragon Eats Hornworm: Your Complete Guide and Care Tips

Bearded dragons are fascinating pets that are known for their active and fun personality. They are omnivores, which means they eat vegetables, fruits, and insects. One of their favorite treats is hornworms. In this guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about feeding hornworms to your bearded dragon.

What are Hornworms?

Hornworms are the larval stage of the hawk or sphinx moth. They are soft, juicy, and rich in nutrients, making them an excellent treat for your bearded dragon. Hornworms are usually green in color with a horn at the end of their tail. They are easily found in pet stores, or you can breed them at home.

Nutritional Value of Hornworms

Hornworms are an excellent source of proteins, vitamins, and minerals for your bearded dragon. They are high in calcium, which is crucial for maintaining the health of your pet’s bones and teeth. They also contain chitin, which helps promote healthy digestion.

Feeding Hornworms to Your Bearded Dragon

When feeding hornworms to your bearded dragon, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, make sure that the hornworms are gut-loaded, which means they are fed nutritious foods to ensure optimum nutrition for your pet. Secondly, only feed hornworms that are smaller than the width of your pet’s head. Lastly, never feed hornworms that are wild-caught, as they may carry parasites or diseases.

Frequency of Feeding Hornworms

Hornworms should be given as a treat and not as a staple food. You can offer them to your pet once or twice a week, depending on their age and size. Baby bearded dragons can have them more often since they need more protein to grow.

Preparing Hornworms for Feeding

Before feeding hornworms to your bearded dragon, you need to make sure that they are properly prepared. You can dust them with calcium and vitamin D3 powder to enhance their nutritional value. Alternatively, you can gut-load them with nutritious foods to pass on the nutrients to your pet.

Care Tips for Feeding Hornworms

When feeding hornworms to your bearded dragon, it’s crucial to keep the following care tips in mind:

• Always supervise feeding to avoid choking or overeating.
• Never feed wild-caught hornworms.
• Make sure that the hornworms are smaller than your pet’s head.
• Ensure that the hornworms are gut-loaded or dusted with calcium and vitamins.
• Offer hornworms as a treat, not as a staple food.

Conclusion

Hornworms are a nutritious and delicious treat that your bearded dragon will enjoy. However, it’s essential to feed them in moderation and ensure that they are prepared and cared for properly. With this guide, you can provide your pet with the best nutrition and care to keep them happy and healthy.