How Often Should I Feed My Baby Bearded Dragon?
Bearded dragons are popular reptile pets known for their docile nature and unique appearance. If you recently acquired a baby bearded dragon, it’s important to know how often to feed them to ensure their health and growth. In this article, we will explore the feeding schedule for baby bearded dragons and answer some frequently asked questions about their diet.
Feeding Schedule for Baby Bearded Dragons:
Baby bearded dragons have high metabolic rates and require regular feeding to support their growth. Generally, they should be fed 2-3 times a day, with a variety of appropriate foods. However, it’s essential to monitor their weight and adjust the feeding schedule accordingly.
Here’s a general guideline for the feeding schedule of baby bearded dragons:
1. First 2-3 months: Offer small, appropriately sized insects 2-3 times a day. These can include crickets, small mealworms, and small dubia roaches.
2. 3-6 months: Continue feeding small insects but decrease the frequency to 2 times a day.
3. 6-12 months: Gradually transition to feeding larger insects, such as adult crickets and dubia roaches. Feed once a day.
4. After 12 months: Reduce the feeding frequency to every other day and start introducing vegetables and greens into their diet.
FAQs about Feeding Baby Bearded Dragons:
1. Can I feed my baby bearded dragon fruits? Fruits should be given as occasional treats due to their high sugar content. Stick to vegetables and greens as the main source of plant matter in their diet.
2. How many insects should I feed my baby bearded dragon per feeding? Offer as many insects as they can consume in 10-15 minutes. Avoid overfeeding, as it can lead to obesity and health issues.
3. Can I feed my baby bearded dragon wild-caught insects? It is not recommended to feed wild insects due to the risk of pesticide exposure and parasites. Purchase insects from reputable sources.
4. Should I gut-load insects before feeding them to my baby bearded dragon? Yes, gut-loading insects with nutritious foods before feeding them to your pet ensures they receive a well-rounded diet.
5. Can I feed my baby bearded dragon freeze-dried insects? While freeze-dried insects may be convenient, they lack the nutritional value of live insects. Live insects should be the primary food source.
6. How often should I offer vegetables and greens to my baby bearded dragon? Start introducing small amounts of greens and vegetables around 4-6 months of age. Offer them daily alongside insects.
7. Can I feed my baby bearded dragon pinky mice? Pinky mice are not a natural part of a bearded dragon’s diet and should be avoided. Stick to insects and plant matter.
8. Can I offer my baby bearded dragon commercial bearded dragon pellets? While some pellets may be suitable as occasional treats, they should not be the primary food source. Fresh insects and greens are essential for their overall health.
9. How long should I wait after feeding my baby bearded dragon to handle them? Allow at least an hour for digestion before handling to prevent regurgitation.
10. Should I dust insects with calcium and vitamin supplements? Yes, dusting insects with calcium and vitamin supplements is crucial to ensure your baby bearded dragon receives adequate nutrition.
11. How much water should I provide for my baby bearded dragon? Offer clean, fresh water in a shallow dish daily. However, bearded dragons mainly obtain moisture from their food, so hydration should be supplemented with regular misting.
12. When should I transition my baby bearded dragon to an adult diet? Gradually introduce more vegetables and decrease insect feedings around 12 months of age to transition to an adult diet.
Remember, each bearded dragon is unique, and their feeding requirements may vary. Observe your pet’s behavior and consult a reptile veterinarian for personalized advice on their diet and feeding schedule.