New bearded dragon enthusiast may have so many questions about their bearded dragons. Questions about what are the best plants for their enclosures, natural food and how to keep your bearded dragon terrarium clean and so much more. We will help you make the best choices for your beardies! In this post we are digging into the safe plant for bearded dragons to eat! Read more to learn!
This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase I may receive a commission at no extra costs to you.
Safe Plants for Bearded Dragons to Eat
Bearded dragons are omnivores, and their diet includes a variety of insects, vegetables, and fruits. When it comes to plants, it’s a good idea to choose safe options that are free from pesticides and harmful chemicals. Here are some safe plants for Bearded Dragons to eat!
Healthy edible plants for bearded dragons to eat:
1. Leafy Green Vegetables:
– Collard greens
– Mustard greens
– Dandelion greens (make sure they are from an area free of pesticides)
– Kale (in moderation due to its high oxalate content)
– Turnip greens
– Swiss chard
– Spider Plants
2. Herbs:
– Parsley
– Cilantro
– Basil
– Mint
– Dill
3. Vegetables:
– Bell peppers (green, red, or yellow)
– Carrots (shredded or finely chopped)
– Squash (butternut or yellow squash)
– Zucchini
– Cucumber (remove seeds)
– Prickly pear cactus (Opuntia)
4. Fruits (in moderation due to high sugar content):
– Apples (remove seeds)
– Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Papaya
– Mango
– Melons (watermelon, cantaloupe)
5. Edible Flowers (pesticide-free):
– Hibiscus
– Dandelion flowers
– Rose petals (organic, pesticide-free)
Before introducing any new safe plants for your bearded dragons to eat, it’s essential to thoroughly wash and inspect it to ensure it is free from pesticides and contaminants. Additionally, always introduce new foods gradually to monitor your dragon’s response and prevent any digestive issues.
Avoid feeding bearded dragons toxic plants or those with high levels of oxalates, such as spinach and rhubarb. Also, steer clear of plants from areas treated with pesticides or herbicides, as these can be harmful to your pet. A safe option is to buy organic fruits and vegetables from the store or farmers market or grow your own!
It’s worth noting that the dietary needs of bearded dragons may vary based on their age. Juveniles have different nutritional requirements than adults, and their diet should be adjusted accordingly. Consulting with a veterinarian who specializes in reptile care can provide personalized guidance on the best diet for your bearded dragon based on its specific needs and health status.
How to Care for a Bearded Dragon
Caring for bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps) requires attention to various aspects of their well-being to ensure they thrive in captivity. These popular reptile pets are known for their distinctive appearance, docile nature, and relatively easy maintenance compared to some other reptiles. Proper care involves considerations for their housing, diet, health, and overall environment.
1. Housing:
– Your Beardie enclosure needs to be spacious and secure enclosure to mimic their natural habitat. A tank or vivarium with a minimum size of 40 gallons for an adult dragon is recommended.
– Provide a basking area with a heat lamp to create a temperature gradient. The basking spot should reach around 95-110°F (35-43°C), while the cooler side should be around 75-85°F (24-29°C).
– Use appropriate substrates, such as reptile carpet, tile, or a mixture of sand and soil, avoiding loose substrates to prevent ingestion and impaction.
Enclosure Tips
Creating a happy and healthy home for your bearded dragon is key to its well-being! Here are some tips for setting up your beardie’s enclosure:
Size:
- Minimum size: For an adult bearded dragon, the minimum enclosure size is 4 feet long, 2 feet wide, and 2 feet high. However, bigger is always better!
- Growing dragons: If you have a baby bearded dragon, start with a smaller enclosure and upgrade as it grows.
Temperature and Lighting:
- Gradient: Bearded dragons need a temperature gradient with a warm basking spot of 95-105°F, a cool side of 75-80°F, and a nighttime temperature of 70-75°F.
- UVB lighting: Use a linear UVB tube covering 75% of the enclosure and replace it every 6 months. Avoid compact coil bulbs due to their uneven UV distribution.
- Basking lamp: Use a basking lamp to create a warm spot and position it strategically to create proper temperature gradients.
Substrate:
- Safe options: Tile, paper towels, reptile carpets, or a bioactive setup are good choices. Avoid loose substrates like sand or loose coconut fiber, as they can be impaction hazards.
- Cleaning: Choose a substrate that is easy to clean and disinfect.
Hides and Enrichment:
- Multiple hides: Provide several hides, one on the warm side, one on the cool side, and one for shedding. Use natural materials like rocks, cork bark, or wood.
- Climbing opportunities: Add branches, rocks, or platforms for climbing and exploration.
- Rotate decor: Regularly rotate decor to keep your dragon stimulated and prevent boredom.
Other important factors:
- Humidity: Aim for a humidity level of 35-40%. Avoid misting excessively, as it can raise humidity too high and promote bacterial growth.
- Diet: Feed your bearded dragon a varied diet of vegetables, fruits, and insects appropriate for its age and size.
- Water: Provide fresh, clean water in a shallow dish daily.
- Regular vet checkups: Take your bearded dragon to a reptile vet for regular checkups.
Additional resources:
- Creating the Perfect Bearded Dragon Habitat: https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/zoo-med-juvenile-bearded-dragon-kit
Remember, these are just general tips. Always research and provide the best possible care for your specific bearded dragon’s needs!
2. Lighting:
– Bearded dragons require exposure to natural sunlight or full-spectrum UVB lighting for at least 10-12 hours a day. UVB light aids in calcium metabolism, essential for bone health.
– Replace UVB bulbs every 6-12 months, as they lose their effectiveness over time.
3. Diet:
– Bearded dragons are omnivores, and their diet should consist of a variety of live insects, such as crickets, dubia roaches, and mealworms, as well as fresh vegetables and fruits.
– Feed juveniles multiple times a day, gradually reducing to once a day for adults. Dust insects with calcium and vitamin supplements to ensure nutritional balance.
– Pay attention to the size of food items to avoid choking hazards.
4. Hydration:
– Provide a shallow water dish for drinking, soaking, and maintaining proper hydration. Bearded dragons might not drink from a dish regularly, so ensure their diet includes moisture-rich foods like leafy greens.
– Mist the enclosure to maintain humidity, especially during shedding.
5. Handling:
– Bearded dragons generally tolerate handling well, but it’s crucial to approach them calmly and support their bodies.
– Start with short handling sessions, gradually increasing the duration as the dragon becomes accustomed to being held.
6. Health Care:
– Regularly monitor the dragon’s behavior, appetite, and stool for signs of illness. Common health issues include respiratory infections, metabolic bone disease, and parasites.
– Schedule annual check-ups with a reptile-savvy veterinarian to address potential health concerns early.
7. Environment Enrichment:
– Provide environmental enrichment with rocks, branches, and hiding spots to create a stimulating and secure environment.
– Rotate and rearrange items periodically to prevent boredom and encourage exploration.
8. Shedding:
– Bearded dragons shed their skin regularly. Ensure proper humidity levels to facilitate shedding, and provide rough surfaces like rocks or logs for them to rub against.
9. Reproduction:
– If housing multiple dragons, be prepared for potential breeding behavior. Female dragons may lay eggs even without a male present. Provide a suitable nesting box if needed.
10. Research and Learning:
– Stay informed about the latest research and best practices for bearded dragon care. Reptile husbandry guidelines can evolve, and staying up-to-date ensures optimal care for these fascinating reptiles.
Caring for bearded dragons involves creating a well-maintained habitat, offering a balanced diet, providing proper lighting and heating, and attending to their physical and mental well-being. Regular observation and veterinary care contribute to the longevity and happiness of these captivating reptile companions.
Can I put real plants in my bearded dragon’s tank?
Plants are a great addition to your bearded dragon’s enclosure. Choosing the right live plants for your bearded dragon enclosure is crucial for both aesthetics and enrichment.
Here are some factors to consider:
1. Safety: The most important aspect is choosing healthy edibles that are non-toxic plants that your dragon won’t harm itself by eating.
Here are some examples of safe live plants for your pet’s enclosure:
- Succulents: Aloe Vera, Echeveria plants, and Haworthia plants (these have minimal to no spines)
- Herbs: Basil, oregano, rosemary (ensure limited consumption as some herbs can be strong)
- Other: Hibiscus, bromeliads, pothos (ensure minimal consumption as some can cause digestive issues)
2. Environment: Match the plant’s needs to your bearded dragon’s habitat. Consider:
- Temperature: Most bearded dragons require warm temperatures. Choose plants that thrive in similar conditions.
- Humidity: Some plants prefer higher humidity, which might not be ideal for bearded dragons. Opt for species tolerant of drier environments.
- Light: Ensure the plant receives enough light based on its needs and your enclosure setup.
3. Durability: Bearded dragons might dig, climb, or nibble on plants. Choose sturdy options that can withstand some wear and tear.
4. Maintenance: Consider your time and expertise for plant care. Choose low-maintenance options if you’re a beginner.
Plants for Your Bearded Dragon Tank
Here are some low-maintenance plants for your bearded dragon tank:
Easy:
- Aloe vera
- Echeveria
- Haworthia
- Jade plant
- Spider plant
- Air Plants
Moderate:
- Bromeliads
- Hibiscus
- Pothos
- Snake plant
- Philodendron
More challenging:
- Ficus
- Dracaena
- Spiderwort
- ZZ plant
Bonus Tip: Consider planting herbs your dragon can safely munch on, like basil, oregano, or rosemary. This adds enrichment and provides a natural treat.
Always double-check a plant’s toxicity before introducing it to your enclosure. Consult reptile veterinarians or experienced bearded dragon owners for specific recommendations based on your setup. If you are worried about caring for live plants in your enclosure another great option is fake plants. Remember, even safe plants should be monitored and limited in consumption to avoid digestive issues. Enjoy creating a thriving and enriching environment for your bearded dragon friend!
Final Thoughts
Maintaining a well-balanced and nutritious diet for your bearded dragon is paramount to ensuring its overall health, vitality, and longevity in captivity. By incorporating a variety of safe and appropriate foods, bearded dragons can receive the essential nutrients they need to thrive. Leafy plants like collard greens, mustard greens, and dandelion greens provide crucial vitamins and minerals, while vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, and squash offer a diverse range of nutrients. Fruits, while a tasty treat, should be fed in moderation due to their higher sugar content. It is essential to avoid toxic plants and those high in oxalates, such as spinach, and always opt for organic and pesticide-free options.
The dietary requirements of bearded dragons evolve with age, with juveniles needing more protein for growth. Live insects, such as crickets and mealworms, serve as excellent sources of protein, but it’s crucial to dust them with calcium and vitamin supplements to maintain proper nutrition. A well-thought-out feeding plan also considers the importance of hydration, as providing a shallow water dish and misting the enclosure help prevent dehydration, especially during shedding.
As responsible reptile keepers, regular observation of your bearded dragon’s behavior, body condition, and stool is imperative. Any signs of lethargy, loss of appetite, or irregularities in excrement should prompt a closer examination and, if necessary, consultation with a veterinarian experienced in reptile care. Regular veterinary check-ups can help address potential health issues early on and ensure your bearded dragon’s well-being.
Remember that introducing new foods gradually and monitoring your bearded dragon’s response is crucial to prevent digestive issues. Maintaining a clean and hygienic feeding environment, as well as providing opportunities for natural behaviors like hunting and foraging, contributes to the overall enrichment and mental stimulation of your pet.
In essence, proper feeding practices form the cornerstone of responsible bearded dragon care. By offering a well-rounded diet, ensuring dietary adjustments based on age, and paying attention to individual health needs, you contribute to the development of a happy, healthy, and contented reptile companion. The bond forged through mindful feeding practices is not only crucial for the well-being of your bearded dragon but also enhances the joy and satisfaction of being a conscientious reptile enthusiast.
Leave a Reply