Bearded Dragon Eating Pinkie: What is it, and Why is it Important?

Bearded dragons are a popular pet reptile that requires a varied diet to stay healthy. One of the lesser-known foods they eat is pinkie mice or newborn mice that haven’t grown fur yet. Although not a staple in their diet, pinkie mice provide essential nutrients for bearded dragons, such as protein and calcium.

It’s crucial to note that not all bearded dragons require pinkie mice in their diet, and some may never eat them at all. But for those who do, it’s important to understand what pinkie mice are, how to feed them, and the potential risks involved.

What are Pinkie Mice?

Pinkie mice are newborn mice that are typically less than five days old. They haven’t developed fur, and their eyes and ears are still closed. Due to their small size, they make an easy meal for many reptiles, including bearded dragons.

Why Do Bearded Dragons Eat Pinkie Mice?

In the wild, bearded dragons are opportunistic feeders and have a diet that consists of insects, small reptiles, and sometimes even pinkie mice. Eating pinkie mice provides them with essential nutrients, such as protein, fat, and calcium. It’s also believed that consuming pinkie mice helps stimulate their digestive system and maintain their overall health.

How to Feed Pinkie Mice to Your Bearded Dragon

Feeding pinkie mice to your bearded dragon can be a daunting prospect, but it’s relatively straightforward if done correctly. The first step is to ensure the pinkie mice are of the appropriate size for your bearded dragon. A general rule of thumb is that the mouse should not be wider than the distance between your bearded dragon’s eyes.

It’s crucial to ensure that the pinkie mice you are providing are ethically raised and not taken from the wild. Pinkie mice from pet stores or breeders are the best option for your bearded dragon.

To feed your bearded dragon, you can either offer them a live pinkie mouse or a frozen one that has been thawed. A live pinkie mouse provides more stimulation for your bearded dragon, as they can hunt it down and eat it. However, a frozen pinkie mouse is safer and less stressful for both you and your bearded dragon.

The Risks of Feeding Pinkie Mice to Your Bearded Dragon

While pinkie mice provide essential nutrients for your bearded dragon, there are some risks involved in feeding them. The biggest concern is the possibility of the mouse biting your bearded dragon or scratching their eyes, which can lead to infections and other health problems.

To minimize the risk of injury, always supervise your bearded dragon while they are eating a pinkie mouse. Additionally, it’s essential to ensure that the mouse is of the appropriate size for your bearded dragon to prevent choking or other digestive issues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, bearded dragons can eat pinkie mice as part of their varied diet. Providing them with ethically-raised, appropriately sized pinkie mice can provide essential nutrients and help maintain their overall health. However, it’s important to understand the risks involved and supervise your bearded dragon while they are eating.