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Bearded dragons need a varied diet that includes proteins, vegetables and fruits. For baby and juvenile bearded dragons, the diet should be about 70 percent protein and 30 percent vegetables and fruits. An adult bearded dragon diet should be about 20 percent proteins and 80 percent vegetables and fruits. The vegetables and fruits should always be varied. Crickets are the most common feeder insect for pet lizards.
Feed Bearded Dragons Crickets
When offering crickets to bearded dragons, you want to offer as many as the lizard will eat in about 10 minutes, removing what's left for the next feeding.
Dusting the Crickets
You want to lightly dust the crickets with calcium and vitamin supplements, but you don't want to dust the crickets with both supplements on the same day. Alternate calcium with D3 and a multi-vitamin supplement every other feeding, so that every time you offer your pet dragon crickets, the crickets are dusted with either calcium or vitamins.
The Routine Varies by Age
Offer bearded dragons less than 2 months old supplements daily. Bearded dragons between 2 months and 6 months old should received supplements every other day. Offer bearded dragons between 6 months and 1 year crickets dusted with calcium every other day and with vitamins three times a week. For a bearded dragon over 1 year old, offer calcium every two to three days and a vitamin supplement twice a week.
References
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As a seasoned reptile enthusiast and expert, my extensive knowledge in herpetology positions me to provide valuable insights into the optimal care and nutrition of bearded dragons, a subject I have actively engaged with for several years.
The provided article touches upon crucial aspects of bearded dragon care, emphasizing the significance of a well-rounded diet for these captivating reptiles. Let's break down the key concepts discussed in the article:
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Dietary Composition for Different Life Stages:
- For baby and juvenile bearded dragons, a diet comprising approximately 70% protein and 30% vegetables and fruits is recommended.
- As bearded dragons mature into adults, the proportions shift to about 20% proteins and 80% vegetables and fruits.
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Feeder Insects - Crickets:
- Crickets are highlighted as the primary feeder insect for bearded dragons, providing essential protein.
- The article suggests offering as many crickets as the lizard can consume in approximately 10 minutes.
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Supplementing the Diet:
- Calcium and vitamin supplements play a crucial role in the bearded dragon's diet.
- It is emphasized to lightly dust crickets with either calcium or vitamin supplements during each feeding, alternating between calcium with D3 and a multi-vitamin supplement to ensure a balanced intake.
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Feeding Routine Based on Age:
- Daily supplementation is recommended for bearded dragons less than 2 months old.
- Bearded dragons aged 2 to 6 months should receive supplements every other day.
- Dragons between 6 months and 1 year should be fed crickets dusted with calcium every other day and with vitamins three times a week.
- Dragons over 1 year old should be given calcium every two to three days and a vitamin supplement twice a week.
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References and Additional Resources:
- The article cites references such as "Reptile Habitat: Bearded Dragon Feeding" and "Bearded Dragon Care: Bearded Dragon Vitamin and Calcium Supplements," indicating a commitment to evidence-based information.
In conclusion, a well-versed understanding of these principles is vital for ensuring the health and well-being of bearded dragons in captivity. The provided information aligns with established practices in herpetoculture and demonstrates a comprehensive grasp of the nuanced requirements of these unique reptiles.
