Bearded dragons have specific dietary requirements depending on their age, size, and health, so the exact answer to what they should be fed daily will vary depending on the individual reptile. Generally speaking, they need a varied diet that includes both insect prey and leafy greens and vegetables.
Insects should be the main protein source and should include items such as crickets, mealworms and other feeder insects, though each dragon may prefer certain types more than others. The insects should be small enough for the dragon to eat easily and should also be dusted with calcium and other vitamins.
Leafy greens and vegetables are just as important as the insect prey. Collard greens, mustard greens, dandelion greens, and turnip greens are all good choices. Vegetables such as sweet potato, squash, green beans, bell peppers, and carrots can also be offered.
Multiple colors of vegetables and greens should be offered to provide the most balanced diet.
It is important to remember that all produce should first be washed thoroughly and any that have been frozen should be defrosted and drained prior to feeding. Feeding should be done once or twice a day, depending on the age of the dragon.
A small amount of calcium powder can be sprinkled on the food a few times a week to ensure they are getting enough.
Do bearded dragons need live food every day?
No, bearded dragons don’t need live food every day. In fact, the majority of their diet should be fresh vegetables and fruits such as collard greens, mustard greens, beet greens, carrots, kales, cucumbers, and squash.
Live food should make up a small portion of a bearded dragon’s diet, and can include crickets, earthworms, and mealworms. Live food should only be given a few times a week, not every day. It is important to make sure that any live food is dust-coated in a calcium supplement since live prey does not naturally provide any calcium for the dragon.
Furthermore, overfeeding live prey can be dangerous to the health of the dragon, so it should be limited.
What is the healthiest vegetable for bearded dragons?
The healthiest vegetables for bearded dragons are dark leafy greens such as collard greens, kale, parsley, and mustard greens, as well as starchy vegetables like sweet potato and squash. All of these vegetables provide a nutrient-dense source of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help a bearded dragon stay healthy.
When feeding vegetables to a bearded dragon, it’s important to remember to only offer vegetables that have been chopped into small pieces so that the bearded dragon can easily digest them. It’s also important to provide a variety of vegetables in order to get the most out of them nutritionally.
When feeding vegetables to a bearded dragon, it is advised not to give lettuce, spinach, and other cruciferous vegetables since they are known to cause digestive issues.
Can bearded dragons eat too much vegetables?
Yes, bearded dragons can eat too much vegetables. A balanced, varied diet is key when it comes to feeding bearded dragons. Vegetables should make up no more than 25-35% of a dragon’s diet, and should be chosen carefully.
Vegetables are a great source of vitamins and minerals, but too much of a good thing can cause problems. Too many vegetables can cause gastrointestinal distress and other issues, such as obesity and liver problems.
High-fiber vegetables such as spinach and kale should be limited. It’s also important to make sure that vegetables are cut small enough so that bearded dragons can digest them properly. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and feed fewer vegetables and more insects.
By providing a well-balanced diet, you can ensure that your bearded dragon stays healthy and happy.
Can Beardies eat cucumber?
Yes, it is safe for beardies to eat cucumber. Cucumbers are a great source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help keep your beardie healthy. Cucumbers are a good source of vitamin A and vitamin K, as well as magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus.
The crunchy vegetable also has a high water content, which can help keep your reptile hydrated. They are low in fat and calories, making them a great snack for your beardie. When offering cucumber to your beardie, always wash it thoroughly and cut it into bite-sized pieces.
Also, never feed him more than one piece at a time to avoid choking. Always monitor your beardie’s weight and health to ensure that he consumes the correct amount of cucumber.
How long can bearded dragons go without meat?
Bearded dragons can go several weeks, or even months, without eating meat. The amount of time they can go without eating meat depends largely on their age and size. Adult bearded dragons generally have a higher need for meat in their diet, as they need more protein to support their growth.
Younger bearded dragons can go without eating meat for much longer, as they have a lower protein requirement. When going without meat, it is important to provide your bearded dragon with sufficient sources of nutrients and vitamins, including leafy greens, insects, fruit, and calcium-rich rocks.
It is also important to provide them with plenty of hydration and exercise. In some cases, it may be necessary to supplement their diet with multivitamins or calcium drops in order to prevent any dietary deficiencies.
If you plan on going longer than a few weeks without offering them any meat, you should consult your veterinarian to best ensure the overall health and well-being of your bearded dragon.