Bearded Dragons, also known as Pogona Vitticeps, are fascinating animals that are commonly kept as pets. They are easy to maintain, and their docile nature makes them great starter pets for reptile enthusiasts. One of the most important aspects of taking care of Bearded Dragons is their feeding habits.
Unlike mammals, Bearded Dragons don’t need to eat all the time. In fact, they can go one to two weeks without eating, especially the adults. Since adults aren’t growing, they don’t require much food, and their slow digestion means that one meal can sit in their stomach for a while. However, juvenile and injured Bearded Dragons may not be able to go this far between meals. They are going through more calories, so they must eat more. Lizards don’t produce their own body heat, so their environment also affects their digestion. If it’s colder, their stomach may stay full for longer, and they may not eat as much.
Bearded Dragons are omnivores, which means they consume both plant and animal foods. In the wild, they eat mostly insects and green plants and fruit. In captivity, their diet should be similar. Typically, adults should be fed every one to three days, and younger Dragons need to be fed more often. Sometimes, very young Bearded Dragons need to be fed two to three times a day. A feeding schedule must be established to make sure enough food is offered.
Bearded Dragons should be offered many different kinds of food, with about 50% plants and 50% insects. These insects can include mealworms, crickets, and roaches, while the plants offered should be 90% leafy greens. Calcium supplements are needed by most Bearded Dragons and can be provided in powdered form, which should be lightly sprinkled and used 2-3 times a week. Adding it to their veggies is recommended since the dust sticks best when used on moist foods.
Although Bearded Dragons can technically go longer between feedings, it isn’t necessarily good for them. Various factors must be considered like their personality and environment, as they show their hunger in different ways. As Bearded Dragons are individuals, their food needs may differ from one another, and their food habits can change for many reasons. They may not eat for several reasons, including shedding of their skin, brumation, illness, and environmental factors that cause stress. Although skipping one meal is normal, if they skip several meals, it’s worth considering why or taking them to a veterinarian.
To sum it up, Bearded Dragons are great pets that should be fed a diverse diet of both plant and animal foods. They may go one to two weeks without eating, especially the adults, but they should be fed every one to three days, and juveniles need to be fed more often. Signs of hunger in Bearded Dragons may differ depending on their personality, and malnutrition may lead to visible signs such as weight loss, lethargy, and poor growth. Various factors must be considered, and pet owners must always observe and monitor them if any concerns arise.
