Bearded dragons do eat spiders. Bearded dragons are omnivorous reptiles whose diet consists of various insects, including spiders. Feeding them spiders can be a good source of protein and nutrients.
However, ensuring the spiders are not venomous or toxic is important, as this could harm the bearded dragon’s health. Therefore, to be safe, it is recommended to provide your bearded dragon with a diet of commercially available insects, fruits, and vegetables that best meet their nutritional needs.
Safe Spiders to Eat
Bearded dragons can safely eat certain species of spiders, including wolf, garden, and huntsman. These spiders are not toxic and are a good source of protein for bearded dragons. However, it is important to note that spiders should not be a main staple food in a bearded dragon’s diet, as they do not provide all the necessary nutrients that a bearded dragon needs.
Toxic Spiders to Avoid
Bearded dragons should never be fed toxic spiders like black widow or brown recluse spiders. These spiders can be deadly to both bearded dragons and humans, and should be avoided at all costs. It is also important to avoid feeding bearded dragons spiders exposed to pesticides or other harmful chemicals.
When feeding bearded dragons spiders, it is important to ensure that the spider is the appropriate size for the dragon to consume safely. Spiders that are too large can cause choking or other digestive issues. Additionally, bearded dragons should always be supervised whthe mainen feeding on spiders, as they may accidentally ingest other foreign objects.
Tips: Bearded dragons can eat spiders as an occasional treat, they should not be relied upon as a primary source of nutrition. Insects such as crickets and dubia roaches are a better source of protein and nutrients for bearded dragons.
What Do Bearded Dragons Normally Eat?
Bearded dragons are omnivores, which means they eat both plants and animals. In the wild, they eat a variety of foods, including insects, flowers, greens, vegetables, and fruits. In captivity, their diet should mimic their natural diet as closely as possible.
Insects
Insects are a crucial part of a bearded dragon’s diet. They provide essential nutrients such as protein and calcium. Some insects that bearded dragons commonly eat include crickets, roaches, locusts, mealworms, and waxworms. Dubia roaches are also an excellent choice as they have a good nutritional value and are low in fat.
When feeding insects to bearded dragons, it is essential to ensure that they are gut-loaded. This means that the insects are given a nutritious diet before they are given to the bearded dragon. Dusting calcium and vitamin D3 supplements to the insects is also crucial.
Vegetables and Greens
Vegetables and greens should comprise a significant portion of a bearded dragon’s diet. Some vegetables and greens that bearded dragons can eat include collard greens, kale, mustard greens, turnip greens, dandelion greens, and parsley. Ensuring that the vegetables and greens are fresh and clean is essential.
Fruits
The vitamins and minerals in fruits are beneficial to bearded dragons. Some fruits that bearded dragons can eat include apples, bananas, berries, melons, and mangoes. It is important to remember that fruits contain a lot of sugar and should be consumed in moderation.
In addition to insects, vegetables, and fruits, it is essential to ensure that bearded dragons have access to clean water at all times. It is also crucial to ensure that their diet is nutritionally balanced and meets their specific nutritional needs.
Are Spiders Nutritious for Bearded Dragons?
Spiders can be a part of a bearded dragon’s diet, but there are more nutritious options. While spiders contain protein, they also have a high amount of chitin, a tough, indigestible substance found in the exoskeletons of arthropods. In addition, chitin can make it difficult for bearded dragons to absorb nutrients from spiders, making them less beneficial than other insects.
In addition to the high chitin content, spiders have a lower nutritional value than other insects such as crickets and dubia roaches. This means that while spiders can provide some nutrients, they are not a primary source of nutrition for bearded dragons.
While spiders may be part of the diet of a bearded dragon, they should not be its main source of nutrition. Instead, bearded dragons require a balanced diet that includes a variety of insects to ensure they get all the necessary nutrients for their health and wellbeing.
| Nutrient | Spider | Crickets | Dubia Roaches |
| Protein | High | High | High |
| Chitin | High | Low | Low |
| Nutrients | Low | High | High |
Health Risks of Feeding Spiders to Bearded Dragons
Poisonous Spiders
Feeding bearded dragons spiders can be risky, especially when feeding them poisonous spiders. Some spiders can be toxic to bearded dragons and can cause serious health problems or even death. Symptoms of spider poisoning in bearded dragons include vomiting, shaking legs, trembling around the mouth area, drooling, and breathing difficulties. If you suspect your bearded dragon has consumed a poisonous spider, you should immediately take them to a veterinarian.
Non-Poisonous Spiders
Even non-poisonous spiders can pose a risk to bearded dragons. For example, spiders can carry parasites and pesticides, harming bearded dragons. Additionally, spiders have a lower nutritional value than other insects such as crickets and locusts, so feeding them to bearded dragons regularly may lead to health problems such as obesity or kidney failure over time.
Not all spiders are safe to feed to bearded dragons, even if they are non-poisonous. For example, some spiders may have toxins that can cause injury or illness to bearded dragons. Therefore, it is important to research the spider species before feeding it to your bearded dragon.
In general, it is recommended to avoid feeding spiders to bearded dragons. However, if you do choose to feed spiders to your bearded dragon, it is important to take precautions such as only feeding them captive-bred and raised spiders and limiting the amount of spiders you feed them.
How to Feed Spiders to Bearded Dragons
Feeding spiders to bearded dragons can be a great treat for your pet, but it is important to do it safely and correctly. Here are some guidelines to follow when feeding your bearded dragon spiders.
Preparation
Before feeding spiders to your bearded dragon, it is important to prepare them properly. Here are some steps to follow:
● Use tweezers to hold the spider and ensure it is dead before feeding it to your bearded dragon.
● Remove any legs or other body parts that may be difficult for your bearded dragon to chew and digest.
● Cut the spider into small pieces to make it easier for your bearded dragon to eat.
● If you are uncomfortable feeding live spiders to your bearded dragon, you can use frozen or freeze-dried spiders as an alternative.
Safety Precautions
Feeding spiders to your bearded dragon can be safe if you take the proper precautions. Here are some things to keep in mind:
● Only feed your bearded dragon non-venomous spiders that have been properly prepared.
● Avoid feeding your bearded dragon wild-caught spiders, as they may carry parasites or pesticides.
● Please do not feed your bearded dragon spiders as a regular part of their diet, as they are not as nutritious as other feeder insects.
Feeder Insects
In addition to spiders, there are many other feeder insects you can feed your bearded dragon. Here are some of the most common feeder insects:
● Crickets: These are a great source of protein and can be fed to your bearded dragon as a staple food.
● Dubia Roaches: These are also a great source of protein and are easy to digest.
● Mealworms: These are high in fat and should be fed sparingly.
● Waxworms: These are high in fat and should only be fed as an occasional treat.
Feeding spiders to your bearded dragon can be a fun and nutritious treat, as long as you follow the proper precautions and guidelines.
Alternatives to Feeding Spiders to Bearded Dragons
Bearded dragons are omnivorous reptiles that require a well-balanced diet to stay healthy. While spiders may seem tempting for these lizards, they can be dangerous and even deadly, especially if they are venomous. Fortunately, there are several safe and nutritious alternatives to feeding spiders to bearded dragons.
Cicadas
Cicadas are a great source of protein for bearded dragons. These insects are low in fat and nutrition, making them an excellent addition to a bearded dragon’s diet. They are also easy to find during the summer when they emerge from the ground to mate and lay eggs.
To feed cicadas to your bearded dragon, catch them in the wild or purchase them from a reputable pet store. Remove the wings and legs before offering them to your lizard, as these parts can be difficult to digest.
Earthworms
Earthworms are another excellent source of protein for bearded dragons. They are easy to digest and can be fed to lizards of all ages. In addition to protein, earthworms contain essential vitamins and minerals for your bearded dragon’s health.
To feed earthworms to your bearded dragon, simply purchase them from a bait shop or pet store. If you want to give them to your lizard, be sure to rinse them thoroughly. You can chop them into smaller pieces to make them easier to eat.
Occasional Treat
While spiders should be avoided, bearded dragons can enjoy an occasional treat as part of a balanced diet. Some safe treats for bearded dragons include fruits, vegetables, and mealworms. However, treats should only make up a small portion of your lizard’s diet, as too much can cause obesity and other health problems.
In conclusion, bearded dragons should not be fed spiders due to the potential risks. Instead, cicadas and earthworms are safe and nutritious alternatives that can be fed to your lizard regularly. Treats should only be given occasionally and in moderation to ensure your bearded dragon stays healthy and happy.
Conclusion
Bearded dragons can eat spiders, but it is important to exercise caution. However, only certain types of spiders are safe for consumption, and it is crucial to properly identify them before offering them to your pet lizard.
It is recommended to limit the frequency of spider feedings to a few times a month, rather than every week, as spiders provide less nutritional value than other insects like crickets and locusts. Additionally, some spiders may carry parasites or pesticides, which can harm your pet.
