Introduction

Bearded dragons are known for being docile and easy to care for, which makes them a popular pet choice for beginners. However, their diet can often be a cause for concern among new owners, especially when it comes to the question of whether a bearded dragon can eat a baby bearded dragon.

The thought of a bearded dragon preying on its own young can be disturbing and may leave you with many questions. In this blog post, we’ll explore the topic of bearded dragon cannibalism and give you the answers you need to keep your pets safe and healthy.

What Is Cannibalism in Bearded Dragons?

Cannibalism, in the context of bearded dragons, refers to when an adult or juvenile bearded dragon eats another bearded dragon, usually a baby or a hatchling.

Cannibalism is not a common occurrence in bearded dragons, as they are generally quite territorial and will not tolerate other bearded dragons invading their space. However, it can happen in certain situations, such as when food is scarce or when two bearded dragons are housed together without proper supervision.

Why Do Bearded Dragons Eat Their Own Kind?

There are a few reasons why bearded dragons may resort to cannibalism:

• Territorial disputes: Bearded dragons can be quite territorial and will defend their space against other bearded dragons. If two bearded dragons are housed together without enough space, they may become aggressive towards each other and resort to cannibalism.
• Food scarcity: In the wild, bearded dragons have to compete for food. If food is scarce and a bearded dragon comes across a baby or hatchling, it may see it as an easy meal.
• Instinct: Cannibalism may be an instinctual behavior that helps bearded dragons survive in the wild. By eating weaker individuals, they are ensuring that only the strongest and fittest survive.

Can a Bearded Dragon Eat a Baby Bearded Dragon?

Yes, a bearded dragon can eat a baby bearded dragon. In fact, it’s not uncommon for adult bearded dragons to prey on their own offspring.

If you have a bearded dragon that has recently laid eggs or given birth, it’s important to separate any babies from the adults as soon as possible. Bearded dragons can be quite aggressive towards their offspring, especially if they perceive them as a threat to their territory or food source.

It’s also important to make sure that you are providing your bearded dragons with enough space and food to avoid any territorial or hunger-driven aggression. In a captive environment, bearded dragons should be housed separately unless they are being bred or housed for a very short period of time, and even then, they should be closely monitored.

What to Do If Your Bearded Dragon Is Cannibalistic

If you suspect that your bearded dragon is cannibalistic, it’s important to take action immediately to protect any other bearded dragons in your care.

The first step is to separate the bearded dragons from each other and make sure that they each have their own space and resources. You may also want to consider getting a veterinarian involved to make sure that there are no underlying health issues that could be contributing to the cannibalistic behavior.

It’s also important to evaluate your care and habitat setup to make sure that your bearded dragons are getting everything they need to thrive. Are they getting enough food and space? Are the temperatures and lighting appropriate?

In some cases, a combination of environmental and behavioral factors may be contributing to the cannibalistic behavior, and it may take some time and experimentation to figure out the best course of action.

Conclusion

While cannibalism is not a common occurrence in bearded dragons, it’s important to be aware of the potential for aggression towards babies or smaller individuals. By providing your bearded dragons with enough space, food, and attention, you can help prevent any cannibalistic behavior from occurring.

If you have any concerns about your bearded dragon’s behavior or health, don’t hesitate to reach out to a veterinarian or a reptile expert for advice and guidance.