How Many Crickets Should a Baby Bearded Dragon Eat a Day
Bearded dragons are fascinating reptiles that make popular pets due to their docile nature and captivating behaviors. If you are a proud owner of a baby bearded dragon, it is crucial to provide them with a proper diet to ensure their healthy growth and development. One of the primary food sources for baby bearded dragons is crickets. However, determining the quantity of crickets they should consume can be a challenging task. This article aims to guide you on how many crickets a baby bearded dragon should eat a day.
Feeding a baby bearded dragon can be an exciting experience. These little reptiles have a voracious appetite, especially during their early growth stages. As a general rule of thumb, baby bearded dragons should be fed as much as they can eat in a 10 to 15-minute feeding session, two to three times a day.
On average, a baby bearded dragon should consume around 20 to 60 appropriately-sized crickets per day. The size of the crickets should be no larger than the space between the lizard’s eyes. Providing a variety of appropriately-sized insects, such as mealworms and small dubia roaches along with crickets, can help ensure a balanced diet.
It is important to note that the quantity of crickets may vary depending on the size, activity level, and individual growth rate of your baby bearded dragon. Monitoring their weight and tail thickness can help you determine if you are feeding them the right amount. If their weight is increasing too rapidly or their tail becomes too fat, it may be an indication that you are overfeeding them.
Now let’s address some frequently asked questions about baby bearded dragon feeding:
1. Can I leave crickets in the enclosure overnight for my baby bearded dragon to eat?
No, it is best to remove any uneaten crickets after a feeding session to prevent them from harming or stressing your dragon.
2. Should I dust the crickets with calcium and vitamin supplements?
Yes, it is essential to dust the crickets with calcium and vitamin supplements before feeding them to your baby bearded dragon. This helps ensure they receive the necessary nutrients for their growth.
3. Can I feed my baby bearded dragon vegetables or fruits instead of crickets?
While vegetables and fruits are an important part of a bearded dragon’s diet, they should not replace the protein-rich insects like crickets.
4. How many times a day should I feed my baby bearded dragon vegetables or fruits?
Vegetables and fruits can be provided daily, but they should not make up more than 20% of their overall diet.
5. Can I feed my baby bearded dragon dead crickets?
It is best to provide live crickets to stimulate your baby bearded dragon’s hunting instincts. However, if they refuse to eat live insects, you can offer pre-killed ones as a temporary solution.
6. How often should I gut-load the crickets?
Gut-loading, which involves feeding the crickets with nutritious food before offering them to your baby bearded dragon, should be done at least 24 hours before feeding.
7. Should I provide water to my baby bearded dragon?
Yes, ensure a shallow water dish is available at all times. Baby bearded dragons may not drink much water, but it is crucial for their hydration.
8. Can I feed my baby bearded dragon wild-caught insects?
It is best to avoid feeding wild-caught insects as they may carry parasites or pesticides harmful to your pet. Opt for captive-bred insects instead.
9. Can I feed my baby bearded dragon superworms instead of crickets?
Superworms can be offered as part of a varied diet, but they should not be the sole food source for your baby bearded dragon. Crickets offer a better calcium-phosphorus ratio.
10. How do I know if my baby bearded dragon is eating enough?
Monitoring their weight, tail thickness, and overall growth can help you determine if they are eating enough. Consult a reptile veterinarian if you have concerns.
11. Can I feed my baby bearded dragon cooked insects?
No, it is not recommended to feed cooked insects to your baby bearded dragon. They are more likely to eat live prey.
12. What if my baby bearded dragon refuses to eat?
If your baby bearded dragon refuses to eat for more than a few days, it is advisable to consult a reptile veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues.
Remember, providing proper nutrition is crucial for the healthy development of a baby bearded dragon. By feeding them the right amount of crickets and offering a balanced diet, you can ensure they grow into vibrant and active adults.