If you’re a proud owner of a bearded dragon, you know how important it is to keep them healthy and well-fed. And with so many options and recommendations out there, it can be overwhelming to figure out the perfect diet for your scaly friend. But fear not, we’ve got you covered with a comprehensive food chart with pictures that will make feeding your bearded dragon a breeze!
Mealworms
Mealworms are a great source of protein for your bearded dragon, making them a staple in their diet. You can feed them mealworms in moderation, as they can be high in fat. Be sure to avoid feeding your bearded dragon wild-caught insects, as they may have been exposed to pesticides or other harmful chemicals.
Greens
Leafy greens like collard greens, turnip greens, and mustard greens are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals for your bearded dragon. You can mix these greens with other vegetables and fruits to add variety to their diet. But be careful not to feed them spinach or kale, as they can bind calcium and lead to health problems.
Crickets
Feeding your bearded dragon live crickets is not only a fun activity for them, but also a good source of protein. However, make sure to dust the crickets with calcium powder before feeding them to your dragon to avoid any calcium deficiencies. Also, be careful not to feed them too many crickets, as they can become addicted and refuse to eat anything else.
Vegetables
Adding a variety of vegetables like carrots, squash, and sweet potatoes to your bearded dragon’s diet will not only provide them with essential vitamins and minerals, but also add some color to their plate. However, be sure to feed them in moderation as they can be high in sugar.
Fruits
While fruits are a good source of vitamins and minerals, they should only be fed to your bearded dragon in small amounts as they are high in sugar. Some safe fruits to feed your bearded dragon include berries, melons, and kiwi.
Supplements
In addition to a well-rounded diet, it’s important to supplement your bearded dragon’s diet with calcium, vitamin D3, and multivitamins. These supplements come in powder form, and can easily be sprinkled on their food. Be sure to follow the recommended dosages on the packaging to avoid any health problems.
Feeding Schedule by Age
While it’s important to provide a well-rounded diet, it’s equally important to feed your bearded dragon based on their age. The feeding schedule will vary depending on their age, ranging from daily feedings for baby bearded dragons to every other day feedings for adults. Use this chart as a guide to ensure your bearded dragon is getting the proper amount of food:
- Baby (0-4 months): 2-3 feedings per day of 5-10 items per feeding (insects or greens)
- Juvenile (4-12 months): 2 feedings per day of 20-30 items per feeding (insects or greens)
- Adult (12+ months): 1-2 feedings every other day of 30-50 items per feeding (insects or greens)
Conclusion
Feeding your bearded dragon a well-balanced diet is essential to their overall health and well-being. Use this comprehensive food chart with pictures as a guide to ensure your scaly friend is getting the proper nutrients they need. Remember to always provide fresh water and be mindful of overfeeding, as obesity can lead to health problems. With a little care and attention, your bearded dragon will continue to thrive under your care!
