Bearded Dragons are omnivores and this means that they need to be fed a diet which includes several different food groups. Do not feed them food which is larger than the space between their eyes as this has shown to cause paralysis in their hind legs. Feeding insects such as crickets, should be done once a day but fresh greens, like leafy veggies should be on offer throughout the day. Do remove all uneaten crickets from the tank, as these uneaten bugs will annoy the your pet at night, by gnawing on him. Crickets are the most common insects fed to dragons, as these insects are excellent sources of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, minerals, vitamins and water. The crickets are able to satisfy just about all the bearded dragons nutritional needs. Being omnivores, these lizards will also require a diet rich in plant matter, like flowers and vegetables. Do not feed your dragon iceberg lettuce.
Do ensure that at all times, not only at feeding times that these desert living reptiles have access to fresh water. Although most pet owners may never see their dragons actually drinking the water, they rely on the water to cool down. They also use the water as a type of exfoliator to rid themselves of shedding skin. Do not feed a onions, or any types of cabbage leaves as these types of vegetables must be avoided. Bearded dragons should be offered different fruits during feeding time. The recommended fruits which are good for the lizard's diet include apples, figs, grapes, kiwi fruit, pears and raspberries.
When it comes to vegetables, flowers and herbs these reptiles are by no means fussy and they will happily consume cucumber, kale, patty pans, parsley, radish leaves, rocket, pansies and even rose petals. Do remember to change the diet, as a wide selection of foods will encourage a good and healthy appetite. It will also prevent boredom. To keep the bearded dragon in tip-top shape, pet owners must make certain that they receive the full quota of vitamins, minerals and proteins.
Do remember to wash all greens, fruits and herbs as parasites may lurk on the foods and this will lead to parasitic infections. Although safe to eat, beardies are not excessively keen on foods like super worms, wax worms and meal worms. As a treat, the lizards can be given nestling or baby mice.
Do not at any time attempt to feed your dragon fireflies. These insects can prove fatal to these lizards and for pet owners who are living in an area frequented by fireflies - extra care should to be taken to make certain that fireflies do not enter the enclosure or tank. Do not try to give the lizard any type of raw meat at feeding time and other foods that should be avoided, include, frogs, toads, lizards or birds. Raw meat contains high quantities of salmonella and bacteria and this combination can prove fatal to the dragon as well.
Do not stress when it comes to feeding. It is important to find out as much information as possible when it comes to bearded dragon feeding patterns and care. Since there is a wealth of information to be found, first time owners will soon learn and discover all that is needed to keep these fascinating and social lizards, in good physical shape.
The Bearded Dragon Manual (Advanced Vivarium Systems)
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