Yes, bearded dragons can eat worms. However, it depends on the type of worm and how often they are fed to the dragon. Some worms, like hornworms and silkworms, are rich in nutrients and can be a healthy addition to a bearded dragon’s diet.
However, other worms like mealworms and waxworms are high in fat and should only be fed as an occasional treat. Therefore, it’s important to research the nutritional value of each type of worm before feeding them to your bearded dragon.
Feeder Worms for Bearded Dragons
Silkworms are nutritious feeder insects that are high in protein and low in fat. They are also easy for bearded dragons to digest. This is what I usually feed my bearded dragons. However, they can be more expensive than other feeder insects and may be more difficult to find in pet stores.
Superworms are another popular feeder insect for bearded dragons. They are similar to mealworms in nutrition but are larger and easier for bearded dragons to digest. Superworms are also more active than mealworms, making them more interesting for bearded dragons to hunt and eat.
Waxworms are a high-fat feeder insect that can help underweight bearded dragons gain weight. However, they should be fed in moderation, as they are also high in sugar. Waxworms are best used as a treat rather than a staple food.
Phoenix worms, or calciworms, are another nutritious feeder insect high in calcium. They are a good choice for bearded dragons who need to increase their calcium intake. However, they can be more expensive than other feeder insects, and they may be more.
Mealworms are a common feeder insect for bearded dragons. They are easy to find in pet stores and online and relatively inexpensive. Mealworms are high in fat and protein, making them a good choice for bearded dragons who need to gain weight. However, they are also high in chitin, which can be difficult for bearded dragons to digest, and mealworms should be fed in moderation.
Benefits of Feeding Worms to Bearded Dragons
Worms can be a nutritious and tasty addition to your bearded dragon’s diet. Feed them in moderation and choose high-quality, gut-loaded worms to ensure your dragon gets the best nutrition possible. Here are some of the benefits of feeding worms to your bearded dragon:
- Protein: Worms are a great source of protein, which is essential for bearded dragons to grow and maintain their muscles. Worms can contain up to 60 to 70% protein, making them one of the most protein-rich foods you can feed your dragon.
- Hydration: Worms are also high in moisture, with over 75 to 90% water content. This makes them a great source of hydration for your bearded dragon, especially if they need more water.
- Variety: Feeding your bearded dragon various foods is important for health and well-being. Worms can be a great addition to their diet, providing a different texture and taste than other foods like crickets or vegetables.
- Easy to Digest: Worms are generally easy for bearded dragons to digest, which can help prevent digestive issues like impaction. However, feeding your dragon the right size and type of worm is important to avoid potential problems.
Risks of Feeding Worms to Bearded Dragons
One of the risks of feeding worms to bearded dragons is impaction. This occurs when the dragon eats too many worms, which can lead to a blockage in its digestive system. Worms have a tough exoskeleton that can be difficult for bearded dragons to digest, especially if they eat too many.
Symptoms of impaction include lethargy, loss of appetite, and constipation. If left untreated, impaction can be fatal. Another risk of feeding worms to bearded dragons is the potential for parasites.
Worms found in the wild may carry parasites that can harm your pet. These parasites can lead to various health problems, including diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss. To avoid this risk, feeding your bearded dragon commercially raised worms or those properly screened for parasites is best.
Bearded dragons can also develop allergies to certain foods, including worms. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include swelling, itching, and difficulty breathing. If your bearded dragon shows any signs of an allergic reaction after eating worms, immediately stop feeding them to your pet and consult a veterinarian.
Feeding worms to bearded dragons can be a nutritious and tasty treat for your pet, but it is important to know the potential risks. To minimize these risks, it is recommended only to feed your bearded dragon commercially raised worms, limit the number of worms they eat, and watch for any signs of health problems.
Nutritional Needs of Bearded Dragons
Bearded dragons are omnivorous, requiring a diet of both plant and animal matter. In the wild, they eat various insects, vegetables, and fruits. Therefore, it is important to replicate this balanced diet in captivity to ensure your bearded dragon receives all the necessary nutrients.
One of the most important nutrients for bearded dragons is calcium. Calcium is essential for maintaining strong bones and preventing metabolic bone disease. Bearded dragons require a high-calcium diet, with a calcium-to-phosphorus ratio of 2:1. This means that for every two parts of calcium, there should be one part of phosphorus in their diet.
Another important nutrient for bearded dragons is protein. Protein is necessary for growth, development, and, development, and maintaining muscle mass. However, too much protein can be harmful to bearded dragons, as it can lead to kidney damage. Therefore, a balanced diet should contain around 40% protein.
In addition to calcium and protein, bearded dragons require a variety of vitamins and minerals. These include vitamin D3, vitamin A, vitamin E, and iron. These nutrients can be found in various foods, including leafy greens, vegetables, fruits, and insects.
It is important to provide your bearded dragon with a varied diet to ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients. For example, a diet comprising only one or two types of food can lead to nutritional deficiencies and health problems.
| Nutrient | Recommended Amount | Sources |
| Calcium | 2:1 calcium-to-phosphorus ratio | Calcium powder, dark leafy greens, calcium-rich vegetables |
| Protein | 20-25% of diet | Insects, lean meats, eggs |
| Vitamin D3 | UVB lighting | Natural sunlight, supplements |
| Vitamin A | 5,000-10,000 IU/kg of diet | Dark leafy greens, orange vegetables, liver |
| Vitamin E | 10-30 IU/kg of diet | Nuts, seeds, leafy greens |
| Iron | 10-20 mg/kg of diet | Dark leafy greens, red meat, liver |
