Can Bearded Dragons Eat Tangerines?

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 Lavender to Moths to Bloodworms.

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 tangerines?

So, let’s get started!

Can bearded dragons have tangerines?

No, bearded dragons should not eat tangerines. Tangerines are high in citric acid and sugar, which can cause digestive issues and an imbalance in their calcium-to-phosphorus ratio.

Instead, offer bearded dragons a variety of leafy greens, vegetables, and insects for a balanced diet. Safe fruit options include small portions of apples, blueberries, or strawberries as an occasional treat.

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

Potential risks of feeding tangerines to beardies

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

High Sugar Content: Tangerines contain high amounts of sugar, which can lead to obesity and other health issues in bearded dragons.
Excess Vitamin C: Tangerines are rich in Vitamin C, which can cause diarrhea and digestive problems in bearded dragons when consumed in large quantities.
Citric Acid Irritation: The citric acid present in tangerines may cause mouth and stomach irritation in bearded dragons, leading to discomfort and stress.

Alternatives to tangerines for bearded dragons

If you’re searching for alternatives to tangerines, 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 vitamins A and C, collard greens support your bearded dragon’s immune system, eye health, and overall well-being, making them a nutritious staple in their diet.
Bell Peppers: Rich in vitamins A and C, bell peppers provide essential nutrients for bearded dragons, supporting their immune system and promoting healthy skin, making them an excellent treat once a week.
Dubia Roaches: High in protein and easily digestible, Dubia roaches are an excellent staple feeder for your bearded dragon, promoting healthy growth and muscle development.
Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants and vitamin C, blueberries enhance your bearded dragon’s immunity and skin health, making them an ideal weekly treat.
Dandelion Greens: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, dandelion greens can enhance your bearded dragon’s overall health and support proper calcium absorption, making them an excellent occasional addition to their diet.

FAQs

1. Can baby bearded dragons eat tangerines?

No, baby bearded dragons should not eat tangerines due to their high acidity and sugar content.

2. How often can bearded dragons eat tangerines?

Bearded dragons can eat tangerines occasionally, about once every 2-4 weeks.

3. Do bearded dragons like tangerines?

No, bearded dragons should not eat tangerines due to their high acidity and sugar content.

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!

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