Feeding a Bearded Dragon: A Beginner's Guide
Introduction
Bearded dragons are one of the most popular reptile pets in the world. They are docile, friendly, and relatively easy to care for. However, feeding them can be a little tricky as they have specific dietary needs. In this guide, we’ll take a look at everything you need to know about feeding a bearded dragon.
What Do Bearded Dragons Eat?
Bearded dragons are omnivores, which means they eat both plants and animals. Their diet should consist of 80% vegetables and 20% insects or other protein sources. Here are some examples of what you can feed your bearded dragon:
Vegetables:
- Collard Greens
- Mustard Greens
- Kale
- Spinach (sparingly)
- Carrots
- Squash
- Bell Peppers
- Green Beans
- Zucchini
Insects and Protein:
- Crickets
- Mealworms
- Dubia Roaches
- Black Soldier Fly Larvae
- Waxworms (sparingly)
It’s important to note that bearded dragons should not be fed insects that are larger than the space between their eyes. This can cause impaction, which is a potentially fatal condition where the dragon is unable to digest the food properly and becomes impacted.
How Often Should You Feed Your Bearded Dragon?
The frequency of feedings will depend on the age and size of your bearded dragon. Here is a general guideline:
Juvenile Bearded Dragons
- 0-2 months: 3-4 feedings per day
- 2-4 months: 2-3 feedings per day
- 4-6 months: 2 feedings per day
Adult Bearded Dragons
- 6-12 months: 1-2 feedings per day
- 12+ months: 1 feeding per day
It’s important not to overfeed your bearded dragon, as this can lead to obesity and other health problems. Additionally, be sure to remove any uneaten food within an hour of feeding to prevent contamination and the possibility of your bearded dragon eating spoiled food.
Supplements
In order to ensure that your bearded dragon is getting all of the necessary nutrients, it’s important to supplement their diet with calcium and multivitamin powders. These can be found at your local pet store and should be dusted on your dragon’s food a couple of times per week. Be sure to follow the instructions on the package for proper dosage.
Water
Bearded dragons also need access to clean, fresh water at all times. You can provide a shallow dish of water for them to drink from, but be aware that they also may soak in it, which helps with digestion and hydration.
Conclusion
Feeding a bearded dragon can be a simple and enjoyable experience once you understand their dietary needs. Remember to provide a balanced diet of veggies and protein, feed them the appropriate amount based on their age and size, and supplement their food with calcium and multivitamin powders. Your bearded dragon will be happy, healthy, and well-fed!