Can Bearded Dragons Eat Cicadas?

If you’re a proud owner of a bearded dragon, you know how important it is to provide them with a balanced and nutritious diet. With so many food options out there, it’s easy to get lost in the endless possibilities of what you can or cannot feed your beardies – from Shrimp to Frogs to Mini Sweet Peppers.

However, today we’ll be focusing on a particular food item, or rather a particular question, that often sparks confusion in the mind of a bearded dragon owner – can my bearded dragon eat cicadas?

So, let’s get started!

Can Bearded Dragon Eat Cicadas

Can bearded dragons have cicadas?

Yes, bearded dragons can eat cicadas. Cicadas are a good source of protein and nutrients for bearded dragons, making them a suitable addition to their diet.

However, it is essential to ensure the cicadas are pesticide-free before feeding them to your bearded dragon. Also, cicadas should be fed as an occasional treat rather than a staple food, as they have a high exoskeleton content which can be difficult for bearded dragons to digest.

Now, let’s dive into the benefits and potential risks of feeding cicadas to bearded dragons in more detail.

Benefits of feeding cicadas to beardies

Here are 3 benefits of feeding cicadas to bearded dragons:

Nutritional Value: Cicadas are rich in protein and essential nutrients, making them a healthy addition to a bearded dragon’s diet.
Enrichment Activity: Hunting and consuming cicadas can provide mental stimulation and physical exercise for bearded dragons, promoting overall wellbeing.
Eco-friendly Food Source: As a naturally occurring insect, cicadas are a sustainable and environmentally friendly food option for bearded dragons.

Potential risks of feeding cicadas to beardies

While cicadas can offer some benefits to your bearded dragon, there are also some potential risks to keep in mind:

Allergic Reactions: Bearded dragons may develop allergies to cicada exoskeletons, causing skin irritations or digestive issues.
Parasite Transmission: Wild cicadas may carry parasites, which can infest and harm the bearded dragon’s health.
Choking Hazard: Cicadas have a hard exoskeleton that can be difficult for bearded dragons to chew, potentially leading to choking.

Alternatives to cicadas for bearded dragons

If you’re searching for alternatives to cicadas, there are plenty of other fruits, vegetables and insects that your bearded dragon can enjoy. Here are five options to consider, along with their potential benefits and how to incorporate them into your beardie’s diet:

Collard Greens: Rich in nutrients and fiber, collard greens support your bearded dragon’s digestion and overall health, making them an ideal staple food in their diet.
Crickets: High in protein and essential nutrients, crickets serve as a staple food for bearded dragons, promoting growth and overall health while satisfying their natural hunting instincts.
Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants and vitamin C, blueberries enhance your bearded dragon’s immunity and skin health, perfect as a weekly treat.
Mealworms: High in protein and essential nutrients, mealworms are a nutritious staple for bearded dragons, providing energy and supporting their growth and overall health.
Dandelion Leaves: Rich in vitamins A and C, calcium, and fiber, dandelion leaves can support your bearded dragon’s overall health and digestive system when offered as a nutritious snack occasionally.

FAQs

1. Can baby bearded dragons eat cicadas?

Yes, baby bearded dragons can eat cicadas, but they should be offered in moderation due to their hard exoskeleton.

2. How often can bearded dragons eat cicadas?

Bearded dragons can eat cicadas occasionally, about once or twice a month, as a treat.

3. Do bearded dragons like cicadas?

Yes, bearded dragons can eat cicadas occasionally, as they provide protein and variety to their diet.

Other foods for bearded dragons worth checking:

You can check other interesting information about your beardies by clicking here.

Also, do you have any special recipes or food tips for feeding bearded dragons? I’d love to hear from you! Share with me your beardie’s favourite in the comments below!

Reference:

PetsHandle