What can bearded dragons eat and not eat

Bearded dragons are popular pet reptiles that are native to Australia. These lizards are known for their unique appearance, friendly temperament, and relatively easy care. One important aspect of caring for a bearded dragon is ensuring that they are fed a balanced and healthy diet. In this article, we will discuss what bearded dragons can eat and what they should avoid.

What Bearded Dragons Can Eat

Bearded dragons are omnivorous, which means that they eat both plant and animal matter. A healthy diet for a bearded dragon should consist of approximately 70% plant matter and 30% animal matter. Here are some examples of foods that are safe for bearded dragons to eat:

1. Insects: Bearded dragons are carnivorous and require a source of protein in their diet. Insects such as crickets, mealworms, and dubia roaches are excellent sources of protein and should make up a significant portion of a bearded dragon’s diet.
2. Vegetables: Bearded dragons can eat a variety of vegetables, including collard greens, mustard greens, kale, dandelion greens, and squash. These vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals and provide essential nutrients for your bearded dragon.
3. Fruits: Bearded dragons can also eat a variety of fruits, including strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and apples. Fruits should be given in moderation as they are high in sugar.
4. Pellets: Commercially available bearded dragon pellets are a convenient and easy way to ensure that your bearded dragon is getting all the necessary nutrients in their diet. Pellets should be offered in addition to fresh fruits and vegetables.

What Bearded Dragons Should Avoid Eating

While bearded dragons are relatively easy to feed, there are certain foods that they should avoid eating. Here are some examples of foods that should not be offered to bearded dragons:

1. Insects: While insects are an important part of a bearded dragon’s diet, there are some insects that should be avoided. Fireflies, lightning bugs, and box elder bugs are toxic to bearded dragons and should not be fed.
2. Vegetables: While most vegetables are safe for bearded dragons, there are some that should be avoided. Vegetables that are high in oxalates, such as spinach, should be fed in moderation as they can bind calcium and cause health problems.
3. Fruits: While fruits are a great source of vitamins and minerals, they should be fed in moderation. Fruits that are high in sugar, such as grapes and bananas, should be given sparingly.
4. Processed Foods: Bearded dragons should not be fed processed foods such as bread, crackers, or chips. These foods are high in carbohydrates and do not provide the essential nutrients that bearded dragons need.

In conclusion, a healthy diet is essential for the health and well-being of your bearded dragon. By providing a balanced diet of insects, vegetables, fruits, and pellets, you can ensure that your bearded dragon is getting all the necessary nutrients. Additionally, by avoiding certain foods, you can prevent health problems and ensure that your bearded dragon remains healthy and happy for years to come.