Feeding baby bearded dragons
Table of Contents
Feeding baby bearded dragons is a delightful journey of discovery, filled with tiny chomps, adorable munching, and lots of nutritious goodies. Join me, Emily, as I share my experiences and tips on how to provide a balanced diet for our little scaly friends!
Introduction
Feeding my baby bearded dragon, Gilbert, has been a journey of learning and bonding – from understanding his food preferences to figuring out the right feeding schedule, I can’t wait to share my experiences with you! If you’re a new parent to a baby bearded dragon, this guide on feeding baby bearded dragons will be your best friend.
When a bearded dragon is young it will need to eat more insects than vegetables because it’s still growing.
Understanding Baby Bearded Dragons’ Dietary Needs
Before we dive into the feeding schedule, it’s crucial to understand the unique dietary needs of baby bearded dragons. These little critters are omnivores, which means they eat both plant-based and animal-based foods. But unlike us, their diet is heavily skewed towards insects when they’re young. They need the protein for their rapid growth!
When I first got Gilbert, my baby bearded dragon, I was surprised to learn how varied their diet needs to be. I mean, I knew they were omnivores, but I didn’t realize the extent of it! They need a mix of insects, vegetables, and even some fruits. It was like preparing a mini buffet for him every day, and it was so fun to see which foods he preferred!
Baby Bearded Dragon Diet
| Food Type | Quantity | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Insects | As many as they can eat | 3 times per day |
| Vegetables | Always available in the cage | Daily |
The Importance of a Balanced Diet for Baby Bearded Dragons
Just like human babies, baby bearded dragons need a balanced diet for their growth and development. This means a mix of insects for protein, and a variety of fruits and vegetables for vitamins and minerals. It’s like building a colorful salad plate, but for your dragon!
Plant-Based Foods in a Baby Bearded Dragon’s Diet
Even though they are tiny, baby bearded dragons need their greens! Let’s explore the plant-based foods suitable for them. Leafy greens like collard greens, dandelion greens, and mustard greens are excellent choices. But remember, variety is key to a balanced diet. So, don’t forget to include bell peppers, squash, and peas too!
Things to Avoid in a Bearded Dragon’s Diet:
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Insects Captured in the Wild
- Fireflies or Insects that Glow
- Avocados
Safe Vegetables for Bearded Dragons
| Vegetable |
|---|
| Acorn squash |
| Artichoke heart |
| Bell peppers (raw) |
| Bok choy |
| Butternut squash |
| Cabbage (raw) |
| Carrots |
| Celery |
| Cucumber (peeled) |
| Endive |
| Mustard greens |
| Yellow squash |
Animal-Based Foods in a Baby Bearded Dragon’s Diet
Protein is crucial for our little friends’ growth, and that comes from animal-based foods. Let’s delve into what they can eat. Insects like crickets, mealworms, and waxworms are a big hit among the baby bearded dragons. But remember, the insects should be small enough for your baby dragon to eat. A good rule of thumb is to never feed them anything larger than the space between their eyes.
The Role of Insects in a Baby Bearded Dragon’s Diet
Insects are a favorite and essential part of a baby bearded dragon’s diet. Let’s discuss which insects are safe and beneficial for them. Crickets, mealworms, and waxworms are all great choices, but remember to dust them with a calcium supplement before feeding. This ensures your baby dragon gets enough calcium for healthy bone development.
Safe Insects for Bearded Dragons
| Insect | Suitable for Young Beardies | Suitable for Adult Beardies |
|---|---|---|
| Black Soldier Fly Larvae | Yes | Yes |
| Butterworms | Yes | Treats |
| Crickets | Yes | Yes |
| Dubia Roaches | Yes | Yes |
| Earthworms | Yes | Yes |
| Locusts | Yes | Yes |
| Redworms | Yes | Yes |
| Superworms | Yes | Treats |
The Importance of Fruits for Baby Bearded Dragons
Fruits, the sweet treats for bearded dragons, should be given in moderation, especially to babies. Think of them as desserts, not the main course. Suitable fruits include apples, pears, and melons. But remember, all fruits should be finely chopped to prevent choking.
Safe Fruits for Bearded Dragons
| Fruit |
|---|
| Apples |
| Blackberries |
| Blueberries |
| Cherries |
| Cranberries |
| Figs |
| Grapes |
| Melons |
| Peaches |
| Pears |
| Pineapple |
| Plum |
| Prunes |
| Raisins |
| Strawberries |
| Watermelon |
The Need for Calcium and Vitamins for Baby Bearded Dragons
Calcium and vitamins are vital for a baby bearded dragon’s health, especially for their bone structure and growth. This is where supplements come in. Dust their food with a calcium and vitamin D3 supplement to ensure they’re getting enough. But remember, too much of a good thing can be bad, so follow the recommended dosage.
Supplements Needed by Bearded Dragons:
- Iron
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin D3
- Calcium
Hydration: The Role of Water for Baby Bearded Dragons
Water is as important to baby bearded dragons as it is to us, even if they don’t drink it the same way we do. Instead of drinking from a bowl, they prefer to lick water droplets off surfaces. So, mist their food with water before feeding, and they’ll get their hydration while they eat!
Poisonous Plants for Bearded Dragons:
- Boxwood
- Buttercup
- Wild daffodil
- Elderberry
- Holly
- Hydrangea
- Iris
- Ivy
- Jack-in-the-pulpit
- Juniper
- Mistletoe
- Oak
- Poison ivy
- Poison oak
- Poison sumac
- Poinsettia
- Rhododendron
- Tobacco
- Tulip
- Water hemlock
Creating a Feeding Schedule for Baby Bearded Dragons
Now that we know what to feed, let’s talk about when to feed – the feeding schedule for baby bearded dragons. Baby dragons eat more frequently than adults – typically 2-3 times a day. Offer them as many insects as they can eat in a 15-minute period, and always have fresh vegetables available.
Feeding Schedule for Bearded Dragons:
- Baby Dragons: Need a daily dose of Vitamin D3 and Calcium to stay healthy
- Juvenile Dragons: Need a Vitamin D3 and Calcium supplement with a meal 3-4 times per week
- Adult Dragons: Need a Vitamin D3 and Calcium supplement with a meal once per week
Feeding bearded dragons can seem complicated, however by following the easy guidelines below you will be able to keep your bearded dragon healthy and happy.
Conclusion
Feeding our baby bearded dragons can be as fascinating as watching them grow and explore their surroundings. It’s a journey of discovery for both you and your dragon, filled with trials, errors, and lots of fun. So, embrace the process, and you’ll soon become an expert in feeding baby bearded dragons!
Call to Action
If you want to learn more about bearded dragon care, check out the Bearded Dragon Care category. And don’t forget to check out my index page on Bearded Dragon Diet. Happy dragon parenting!
For those of you who are curious about other aspects of bearded dragon diet, you might find our previous posts Feeding adult bearded dragons and Feeding frequency for bearded dragons interesting.
Disclaimer: This article is based on personal experiences and research. It’s always best to consult with a vet or a professional for your pet’s specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I feed my baby bearded dragon?
Baby bearded dragons should be fed two to three times a day.
How much should I feed a baby bearded dragon?
Baby bearded dragons should be fed as many insects as they can eat in a 10-15 minute period, and fresh vegetables should be available at all times.
Do you feed a baby bearded dragon every day?
Yes, baby bearded dragons should be fed every day to support their rapid growth.
When should baby bearded dragons eat?
Baby bearded dragons should be fed in the morning and afternoon, with the last meal at least two hours before the lights go out.
Do baby bearded dragons drink water?
Yes, but they don’t drink water like we do. They mostly get their hydration from their food and by licking water droplets off surfaces.
How often do you soak a baby bearded dragon?
Baby bearded dragons should be soaked in shallow, warm water about three times a week.
Can you overfeed a baby beardie?
It’s unlikely to overfeed a baby bearded dragon as they have a high metabolism, but it’s important to ensure they have a balanced diet.
How often can baby bearded dragons eat fruit?
Fruits should make up a smaller portion of a baby bearded dragon’s diet, and can be offered once or twice a week.
How do I know if my baby bearded dragon is healthy?
A healthy baby bearded dragon should have bright, clear eyes, a strong appetite, regular bowel movements, and be active and alert.
How do you feed a 1 month old bearded dragon?
A 1 month old bearded dragon should be fed small, appropriately sized insects two to three times a day, and have access to fresh vegetables at all times.
What should a baby bearded dragon eat in a day?
A baby bearded dragon should eat a diet primarily of insects, with fresh vegetables available at all times.
Do baby bearded dragons need attention?
Yes, baby bearded dragons need daily interaction and handling to become accustomed to their owners.
Do baby bearded dragons need heat all night?
No, baby bearded dragons do not need heat at night as long as the temperature does not drop below 65-70°F (18-21°C).
What insects are safe for baby bearded dragons?
Baby bearded dragons can eat a variety of insects, including crickets, dubia roaches, and black soldier fly larvae.
Can baby bearded dragons eat vegetables?
Yes, baby bearded dragons can eat vegetables, but their diet should primarily consist of insects.
How can I ensure my baby bearded dragon is getting enough calcium?
You can dust the insects with a calcium supplement before feeding them to your baby bearded dragon.
How do I know if my baby bearded dragon is dehydrated?
Signs of dehydration in baby bearded dragons include sunken eyes, wrinkled skin, and a lack of appetite.
What should I do if my baby bearded dragon isn’t eating?
If your baby bearded dragon isn’t eating, it could be due to stress, illness, or improper habitat conditions. Consult a vet if the problem persists.
