No, you’re not entirely correct if you think bearded dragons are carnivores.

In fact, they’re omnivores. This means your bearded dragon has a diverse diet which includes both plant and animal matter. As younglings, they lean more towards insects, making them seem like carnivores. Approximately 80% of their diet comes from protein sources like crickets, mealworms, and roaches.

However, as they mature, the dietary preference shifts towards plants. Adult bearded dragons usually consume around 80% vegetables and only 20% insects. Their favorite greens include collard greens, squash, and bell peppers. It’s crucial to maintain this balance to keep your pet dragon healthy.

You can learn more by visiting our rich inventory of blogs about bearded dragons.

How To Feed Your Carnivorous Bearded Dragon

Feeding a bearded dragon can be an interesting task if you understand their carnivorous nature and dietary needs. Knowing what, when, and how to feed them can help maintain their health and well-being.

• Bearded dragons are omnivores, meaning they eat both meat and plant-based foods. Despite this, the carnivorous part of their diet should mainly consist of insects like crickets, mealworms, and roaches.
• Feed your pet once or twice daily. Young dragons require more frequent feedings than adults.
• Provide a varied diet to avoid nutritional deficiencies. Including different insects and occasional small mice or lizards ensures your dragon gets a wide range of nutrients.
• Never feed your dragon insects caught from the wild. These may carry diseases or parasites harmful to your pet. Instead, opt for store-bought insects bred for feeding.
• Use feeding tongs to offer insects to your bearded dragon. This will prevent accidental bites and promote a closer bond with your pet.
• Monitor your dragon’s weight and adjust feeding amounts accordingly. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and other health issues.
• Don’t forget to provide fresh and clean water for your dragon daily. Even if they seem to ignore it, it’s essential for their hydration.

By adhering to these feeding guidelines, you can contribute to the overall health and longevity of your bearded dragon. Remember, every dragon is unique, so what works for one, might not work for another. When in doubt, consult with a vet or a professional reptile caregiver.

To further extend your knowledge about bearded dragons, here are a few more to explore:

• Are Baby Bearded Dragons Hard To Keep Alive?
• Are Bearded Dragons Playful?
• Are Bearded Dragons Friendly With Each Other?

Each post offers in-depth insights, giving you all the details you need to take good care of your beardie.

Remember to research and prepare for your pet’s specific needs, and you’ll have a happy and healthy companion for years to come.

Happy pet-keeping!