A Complete Guide To Bearded Dragon Nutrition
Bearded dragons have a varied diet that includes insects, vegetables, fruits, and flowers, but it's important to ensure they receive proper nutrition. Simply feeding them any leftovers from your kitchen isn't enough. You must be mindful of what you're feeding them and whether it provides the necessary nutritional benefits.
When it comes to greens, collard greens are the most popular choice, followed by dandelion greens and mustard greens. Lettuce should be avoided as it lacks any nutritional value, and spinach should only be fed to adults in small amounts as it's high in oxalic acid.
In addition to greens, a variety of vegetables should be provided, including fresh or frozen options like beans, peas, pumpkin, and zucchini. Flowers like daisies, dandelions, and hibiscus can also be fed, as well as fruits like berries, squash, and apples as a treat.
Protein is crucial for bearded dragons and can be found in crickets, roaches, or mealworms. Crickets are the healthiest option, but mealworms are high in fat. Generally, it's suggested to feed them as much as they'll eat in 15 minutes, but monitor their weight and regulate their protein intake accordingly.
If you choose to breed your own insects, ensure they're fed highly nutritious food for at least a few days before feeding them to your dragon. This will provide them with the necessary nutrients.
Finally, always dust your dragon's meals with a calcium supplement every other day, or provide calcium through other means such as feeding calcium-rich foods regularly or using a calcium sand substrate. This will keep them healthy and active.
When it comes to greens, collard greens are the most popular choice, followed by dandelion greens and mustard greens. Lettuce should be avoided as it lacks any nutritional value, and spinach should only be fed to adults in small amounts as it's high in oxalic acid.
In addition to greens, a variety of vegetables should be provided, including fresh or frozen options like beans, peas, pumpkin, and zucchini. Flowers like daisies, dandelions, and hibiscus can also be fed, as well as fruits like berries, squash, and apples as a treat.
Protein is crucial for bearded dragons and can be found in crickets, roaches, or mealworms. Crickets are the healthiest option, but mealworms are high in fat. Generally, it's suggested to feed them as much as they'll eat in 15 minutes, but monitor their weight and regulate their protein intake accordingly.
If you choose to breed your own insects, ensure they're fed highly nutritious food for at least a few days before feeding them to your dragon. This will provide them with the necessary nutrients.
Finally, always dust your dragon's meals with a calcium supplement every other day, or provide calcium through other means such as feeding calcium-rich foods regularly or using a calcium sand substrate. This will keep them healthy and active.