Bearded dragons are popular reptiles kept as pets, known for their unique appearance and docile nature. If you’re a new owner of a bearded dragon, one of the most important aspects of their care is their diet. Proper nutrition is essential for the health and longevity of your bearded dragon.

In the wild, bearded dragons are omnivores, which means they eat both animal-based and plant-based foods. They consume insects such as crickets, mealworms, and dubia roaches for their protein needs, and also eat vegetables, fruit, and flowers. As a pet owner, it’s important to replicate this balanced diet to provide your bearded dragon with the nutrients it requires.

Here’s what you need to know about feeding your bearded dragon:

Protein: Bearded dragons require a lot of protein, especially when they are young and growing. Offer them insects like crickets, mealworms, dubia roaches, superworms, and black soldier flies. You can feed your bearded dragon as many insects as they can consume in 10 to 15 minutes, twice a day. You should avoid feeding them wild-caught insects as they can carry parasites.

Vegetables: A variety of vegetables should be included in your bearded dragon’s diet, including squash, collard greens, mustard greens, kale, turnip greens, and carrots. They should also be offered a variety of fruits like apple, pear, banana, and berries. Avoid feeding them citrus fruits and avocado, as they can be harmful to the bearded dragon.

Supplements: Bearded dragons require calcium and vitamin D3 for strong bones. You can dust their insects with calcium powder once a day and a multivitamin supplement once or twice a week.

Water: Clean, fresh water should always be available for your bearded dragon. A large, shallow dish of water is good for them to soak in and drink from.

Feeding Schedule: Your bearded dragon’s feeding schedule will depend on their age and size. Younger dragons should be fed more frequently than adults. Generally, they should be fed two to three times a day until they are six months old, and then once a day. You can adjust their feeding schedule based on their appetite and behavior.

In conclusion, a varied and balanced diet is essential for keeping your bearded dragon healthy and happy. By offering them a diet that replicates their natural food sources, you can ensure they receive the nutrients they need to thrive. With careful attention to their diet, your bearded dragon can live a long and healthy life.