Introduction

Bearded dragons are one of the most popular reptiles to keep as pets. These gentle, friendly creatures are easy to care for and make great companions, especially for beginners. One of the most important aspects of caring for your bearded dragon is their feeding plan. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to create a healthy and balanced feeding plan for your bearded dragon.

What do Bearded Dragons Eat?

Bearded dragons are omnivores, which means they eat both animal and plant-based foods. In the wild, their diet consists of insects, vegetation, and occasionally small mammals. In captivity, it is important to replicate their natural diet as much as possible.

Insects

Insects should make up the majority of your bearded dragon’s diet. They are high in protein, and most bearded dragons love them. Some of the best insects to feed your dragon include:

• Crickets
• Dubia Roaches
• Mealworms
• Superworms
• Black Soldier Fly Larvae
• Silkworms
• Phoenix Worms
• Hornworms

When feeding insects to your bearded dragon, it is essential to ensure they are the appropriate size. The general rule of thumb is to feed insects no larger than the space between your dragon’s eyes. You should also gut-load your insects before feeding them to your dragon. This means feeding the insects a nutritious diet before giving them to your dragon. This helps ensure your bearded dragon is receiving the proper nutrition.

Vegetables and Greens

In addition to insects, bearded dragons also require vegetation in their diet. Vegetables and greens are essential sources of vitamins and minerals. Some of the best vegetables and greens to feed your dragon include:

• Collard Greens
• Mustard Greens
• Turnip Greens
• Endive
• Kale
• Carrots
• Bell Peppers
• Butternut Squash
• Acorn Squash
• Sweet Potato

It is important to note that while bearded dragons can consume fruits, they should be fed in moderation due to their high sugar content.

Supplements

In addition to a varied diet, bearded dragons require supplements to ensure they are receiving all the necessary nutrients. The most important supplement is calcium. A lack of calcium can lead to metabolic bone disease, a severe and sometimes fatal condition.

Calcium can be provided in two ways – calcium powder sprinkled on your dragon’s food or via a calcium block. There are various types of calcium powder available, so be sure to choose one appropriate for your dragon’s needs. For example, if your dragon is not receiving enough UVB lighting, you may need to choose a calcium powder with vitamin D3.

Feeding Schedule

Now that you know what to feed your bearded dragon, you may be wondering how often to feed them. The frequency of feeding depends on the age of your dragon. Below is a general feeding schedule for bearded dragons:

• 0-3 Months: Feed 3-4 times per day
• 3-6 Months: Feed 2-3 times per day
• 6-12 Months: Feed once or twice per day
• 12+ Months: Feed once per day

When feeding insects, offer as many as your dragon will eat in 10-15 minutes. Any leftover insects should be removed. When feeding greens, offer a variety of greens as much as your dragon will eat in 10-15 minutes.

Final Tips

Before you start feeding your bearded dragon, here are some final tips to keep in mind:

• Offer a variety of insects and greens to ensure a balanced diet.
• Avoid feeding too many insects as they are high in protein and can lead to health problems if overfed.
• Do not feed your dragon wild insects as they may contain pesticides or other harmful substances.
• If your bearded dragon refuses to eat for more than a week, contact your veterinarian.
• Always provide clean water for your dragon to drink.

Conclusion

Creating a healthy and balanced feeding plan for your bearded dragon is crucial for their overall health and well-being. By providing a varied diet, supplements, and following a feeding schedule, you can ensure your dragon remains healthy and happy for years to come.