Bearded dragons are one of the most popular reptile pets due to their docile nature, ease of care, and unique personalities. One of the most important aspects of their care is their diet. In the wild, bearded dragons are omnivorous, which means they eat both animal and plant matter. In captivity, it is important to provide them with a balanced diet to ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients for their health and well-being. In this article, we will discuss what should bearded dragons eat daily, and how to ensure they receive a balanced diet.
What should bearded dragons eat?
Bearded dragons require a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods to meet their nutritional needs. The following is a list of foods that should be included in their daily diet:
- Insects: Bearded dragons are insectivores and require a variety of insects to meet their protein needs. The best insects for bearded dragons include crickets, mealworms, superworms, and Dubia roaches. Insects should be dusted with a calcium supplement before feeding to ensure they receive enough calcium.
- Vegetables: Bearded dragons require a variety of vegetables in their diet. Some of the best vegetables for bearded dragons include kale, collard greens, mustard greens, dandelion greens, turnip greens, and butternut squash. Vegetables should be chopped into small pieces and mixed with other vegetables to provide variety.
- Fruits: Bearded dragons enjoy a variety of fruits as treats, but they should not make up a large portion of their diet. Some of the best fruits for bearded dragons include strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, mangoes, and papayas. Fruits should be chopped into small pieces and offered as a treat once or twice a week.
- Commercial pellets: Commercial pellets are specially formulated for bearded dragons and provide a balanced diet. Pellets should not make up the majority of their diet but can be used as a supplement.
How to ensure a balanced diet for bearded dragons
To ensure a balanced diet for bearded dragons, it is important to follow these guidelines:
- Offer a variety of foods: Bearded dragons require a variety of foods to meet their nutritional needs. Offer a mix of insects, vegetables, and fruits to provide variety.
- Calcium supplementation: Bearded dragons require calcium to maintain healthy bones and teeth. Insects should be dusted with a calcium supplement before feeding.
- Avoid feeding high-fat foods: Bearded dragons are prone to obesity, so it is important to avoid feeding high-fat foods such as mealworms and waxworms.
- Avoid feeding toxic foods: Bearded dragons should not be fed avocado, rhubarb, or chocolate as they can be toxic to reptiles.
- Gut-load insects: Gut-loading insects with nutritious foods such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens can provide additional nutrition to bearded dragons.
Bearded dragons require a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods to meet their nutritional needs. Insects, vegetables, fruits, and commercial pellets should all be included in their daily diet to ensure they receive the necessary nutrients. Calcium supplementation, avoiding high-fat and toxic foods, and gut-loading insects can all contribute to a healthy diet for bearded dragons. By providing a balanced diet, you can ensure your bearded dragon remains healthy and happy for years to come.
