I’ve always been curious about can bearded dragons eat earthworms. While it’s common knowledge that bearded dragons eat insects, many pet owners are still determining the types of insects they can consume. This blog post will explore the question, “Can bearded dragons eat earthworms?” I will discuss the dietary needs of these reptiles and the various types of insects they can eat. Further, I will explore earthworms’ nutritional value and determine whether they are a safe and healthy option for bearded dragons.
If you’re a new bearded dragon owner or want to know about their diet, this post will provide valuable insights into their nutritional requirements. By the end of this article, you’ll better understand what you can feed your bearded dragon to keep them healthy and happy. So, let’s dive into the world of bearded dragon nutrition and find out if earthworms are on the menu!
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Why Should You Feed Your Bearded Dragon Earthworms?
Bearded dragons are among the most popular pet reptiles, and their diet is crucial to their care. A balanced diet for your bearded dragon is essential to maintain its health and well-being.
While they primarily feed on insects and plants, many pet owners wonder if earthworms are suitable for their diet. In this article, we will explore the benefits of feeding earthworms to your bearded dragon.
High in Protein
One of the primary reasons why earthworms are good for bearded dragons is that they are high in protein. Protein is a vital nutrient that helps grow and develop muscle mass in bearded dragons. Earthworms are a rich source of protein, making them an ideal food item for bearded dragons.
Low in Fat
Bearded dragons can develop health issues like obesity if they consume too much fatty food. Earthworms are low in fat, making them a healthier food option for bearded dragons. Feeding your bearded dragon earthworms can help prevent weight-related health problems.
Rich in Calcium
Calcium is essential for developing and maintaining strong bones and teeth in bearded dragons. Earthworms are an excellent source of calcium, making them an important addition to a bearded dragon’s diet. Regularly feeding your bearded dragon earthworms can help meet their daily calcium requirements.
Easy to Digest
Earthworms are easy for bearded dragons to digest, making them an ideal food item for reptiles with sensitive digestive systems. Bearded dragons have short digestive tracts, and food can pass through their system quickly. Earthworms are soft-bodied and easy to digest, making them a healthy and easily digestible food option for bearded dragons.
Nutritional Value Of Earthworm
According to Healthline Here’s a table showing the approximate nutritional values of earthworms per 100 grams:
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Phosphorus | 150 mg |
| Magnesium | 30 mg |
| Potassium | 430 mg |
| Protein | 16.1 g |
| Calcium | 50 mg |
| Copper | 0.1 mg |
| Zinc | 1.5 mg |
| Fat | 1.8 g |
| Iron | 2.2 mg |
These values may vary slightly depending on the type of earthworm and its diet.
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TYPES OF EARTHWORMS TO FEED BEARDED DRAGONS
When it comes to feeding your bearded dragon earthworms, it’s important to select the right type of earthworms to ensure their safety and nutritional benefits. Here are some of the types of earthworms that are safe and nutritious for your bearded dragon:
- European nightcrawlers
- African nightcrawlers
- Mealworms
- Phoenix worms
- Superworms
Earthworms To Avoid Feeding Bearded Dragons
While some earthworms can be safely fed to bearded dragons in moderation, certain earthworms should be avoided.
These include:
- Nightcrawlers
- Red wigglers
- Earthworms from pesticide-treated soil.
Do Earthworms Appeal To The Taste Of Bearded Dragons?
Some bearded dragons may enjoy the occasional earthworm; it’s important to note that many find the texture and taste unpalatable due to the mucus secretion. If your bearded dragon rejects a meal of earthworms, it’s best to explore other food options instead of hoping they will eventually accept it. There are plenty of other nutritious insects and plants that can provide the necessary nutrients for your bearded dragon’s health.
How to Prepare Earthworms for Your Bearded Dragon?
If you have decided to add earthworms to your bearded dragon’s diet, it’s essential to know how to prepare them properly.
Here are some tips on how to prepare earthworms for your bearded dragon.
Gut Loading
Before feeding your bearded dragon earthworms, it’s crucial to gut load them. Gut loading is the process of feeding the insects a nutritious diet to ensure that they pass on the essential nutrients to your bearded dragon. You can gut-load earthworms by feeding them fruits, vegetables, or high-quality commercial gut-loading products.
Dusting with Calcium and Vitamin Supplements
It’s important to dust the earthworms with calcium and vitamin supplements before feeding them to your bearded dragon. Bearded dragons require adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D3 to maintain strong bones and teeth. Dusting the earthworms with calcium and vitamin supplements can help ensure that your bearded dragon receives all the necessary nutrients.
Preparation
To prepare the earthworms, start by washing them thoroughly in running water to remove any dirt or debris. You can then cut them into smaller pieces that are easy for your bearded dragon to eat. It’s important to feed the earthworms to your bearded dragon alive to stimulate their natural hunting instincts.
How to Feed Earthworms to Your Beardies?
Feeding earthworms to your bearded dragon can be a great way to supplement their diet with protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients. Here are some tips on how to feed earthworms to your bearded dragon.
For juvenile bearded dragons, it’s best to start with smaller pieces of earthworms that are easier to digest. You can also feed them smaller insects like crickets and mealworms until they are bigger and stronger. It’s important to ensure that the size of the food is appropriate for the size of the bearded dragon.
For adult bearded dragons, you can feed them larger pieces of earthworms, or even whole earthworms, depending on their size. Bearded dragons are opportunistic feeders and will eat as much as they need, so it’s important to feed them appropriately.
EXPERT TIPS: Remember to gut load and dust the earthworms with calcium and vitamin supplements before feeding them to your bearded dragon. Always provide fresh water and remove any uneaten food after feeding.
How Often Should Bearded Dragons Be Fed Earthworms?
It’s important to remember that earthworms should only be offered as an occasional treat due to their limited nutritional value and potential health risks if consumed in large quantities. Feeding your bearded dragon earthworms once every couple of weeks is a safe and healthy option.
However, offering earthworms more frequently may result in weight-related issues and other health problems.
What Are the Downsides Of Feeding Earthworms to Bearded Dragons?
While earthworms can be a good source of protein and other nutrients for bearded dragons, there are also some downsides to feeding them this type of food.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Nutritional content
While earthworms contain some important nutrients, they are not a complete source of nutrition for bearded dragons. They are low in calcium and other vitamins, which means they should not be the mainstay of a bearded dragon’s diet.
Health Risks
Feeding bearded dragons too many earthworms can increase their risk of obesity and other health problems. In addition, earthworms can carry parasites or other harmful organisms that can make your pet sick.
Palatability
Some bearded dragons do not like earthworms’ taste or texture. If your pet refuses to eat them, you may need to find other sources of protein and nutrition.
Digestive issues
Feeding too many earthworms to your bearded dragon can also lead to digestive problems like constipation or diarrhea.
While earthworms can be a good addition to a bearded dragon’s diet, it is important to feed them in moderation and supplement their diet with other nutritious foods to ensure their long-term health.
Where Can You Get Earthworms for Your Bearded Dragon?
Earthworms are readily available at most pet stores that carry live feeder insects. You can also purchase them online from various suppliers. When purchasing earthworms, it’s important to make sure that they are healthy and free from any harmful pesticides or chemicals.
It’s also recommended to buy earthworms that are raised specifically for feeding reptiles, as wild-caught earthworms may contain parasites or other pathogens that can harm your bearded dragon. Always ensure that the earthworms are kept in a cool and dark place until you are ready to feed them to your bearded dragon.
Do Bearded Dragons Eat Earthworms In The Wild?
Bearded Dragons are omnivores that eat both plants and animals in the wild. They hunt small insects, spiders, and worms as part of their diet, including earthworms.
However, the amount of earthworms they consume is relatively small compared to other insects. In the wild, they have access to various food sources, so earthworms are not a significant part of their diet.
Can Baby Bearded Dragons Eat Earthworms?
Yes, baby bearded dragons can eat earthworms. Earthworms are a good source of protein and nutrients for growing bearded dragons.
Can Baby Bearded Dragons Eat Earthworms Every Day?
No, baby bearded dragons should not eat earthworms every day. Earthworms should be offered as occasional treats rather than a staple food source for bearded dragons.
Can Bearded Dragons Eat EarthWorms From the Garden?
It is not recommended to feed bearded dragon earthworms from the garden as they may have been exposed to harmful chemicals or pesticides. Earthworms from the garden may contain toxins that can harm your bearded dragon’s health.
It’s better to purchase earthworms from a reputable source that sells earthworms for pet consumption. This way, you can be sure that the earthworms are free from harmful chemicals and are safe for your bearded dragon to eat.
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FAQS
Can Bearded Dragons Eat Earthworms as Their Primary Diet?
No, earthworms do not provide all the necessary nutrients that a bearded dragon requires and should not be the primary diet. Providing a varied diet that includes insects and vegetables is important.
Can Earthworms Replace the Need for Vegetables in My Bearded Dragon’s Diet?
No, earthworms do not provide all the necessary nutrients a bearded dragon needs. Vegetables and other plant matter should still comprise the bulk of their diet.
Final Words
While bearded dragons can eat earthworms, it’s important to note that they have little nutritional value and can pose health risks if consumed in large quantities. Additionally, many bearded dragons may not enjoy the texture of earthworms due to the mucus lining. While earthworms can be offered as occasional treats, it’s important to prioritize their diet with foods that your bearded dragon will enjoy and benefit from. Following these tips and ensuring a balanced and nutritious diet can help your bearded dragon thrive and live a healthy and happy life.
I am a dedicated Pet Nutrition Content Writer at "http://dragon-eats.com/," where my passion for animals and expertise in nutrition converge to benefit pet owners like you.
With years of experience in the field, I am committed to helping you make informed decisions about your furry companions' well-being. My extensive knowledge of pet nutrition and wellness enables me to create informative, engaging, and science-backed content that empowers you to provide the best possible care for your pets.
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