When to Feed a Bearded Dragon: A Beginner's Guide
Introduction
Bearded dragons are one of the most popular pet reptiles due to their friendly nature and unique appearance. However, feeding them can be a bit tricky if you’re a beginner. In this guide, we’ll go over when to feed a bearded dragon and everything you need to know about feeding your new pet.
What Do Bearded Dragons Eat?
Bearded dragons are omnivores, which means they eat both plants and animals. In the wild, they hunt insects and other small prey, but they also eat vegetation like flowers and fruit. As a pet owner, you’ll need to provide a balanced diet that includes both insects and vegetables.
How Often Should You Feed Your Bearded Dragon?
Adult bearded dragons should be fed once a day, ideally in the morning or early afternoon. Juvenile bearded dragons, on the other hand, need to be fed twice a day. You should offer them food in the morning and then again in the early evening.
What Time Should You Feed Your Bearded Dragon?
As mentioned earlier, adult bearded dragons should be fed in the morning or early afternoon. This will give them plenty of time to digest their food before they go to sleep at night. Juvenile bearded dragons, however, should be fed in the morning and early evening to ensure that they’re getting enough food.
What Should You Feed Your Bearded Dragon?
When it comes to feeding your bearded dragon, variety is key. You should offer them a mix of insects and vegetables to ensure that they’re getting all of the nutrients they need. Some popular insects include crickets, mealworms, and dubia roaches. As for vegetables, you can offer them things like collard greens, dandelion greens, and butternut squash.
How Much Should You Feed Your Bearded Dragon?
The amount that you should feed your bearded dragon depends on their size and age. A good rule of thumb is to offer them as much food as they can eat in 10-15 minutes. This will ensure that they’re getting the right amount of food without overeating.
What Foods Should You Avoid?
There are some foods that you should avoid feeding your bearded dragon. These include:
- Avocado
- Rhubarb
- Spinach
- Fireflies
- Insects caught in the wild (they may have pesticides on them)
Conclusion
Feeding your bearded dragon may seem daunting at first, but with a little bit of knowledge, it’s actually quite simple. Just remember to offer them a variety of foods, feed them at the right times, and avoid any foods that could be harmful. With these tips, your bearded dragon will be happy and healthy for years to come.