Mealworms are a favorite pet food for many bearded dragon owners. They’re packed with protein (18.7%) and essential nutrients like calcium, which supports strong bones. However, their high fat content (13.4%) means you should feed them sparingly. For younger dragons, avoid overfeeding since their tough shells can cause digestion issues.
Key Takeaways
- Give mealworms to your bearded dragon only sometimes. They have a lot of fat and should be a treat, not regular food.
- Feed mealworms healthy veggies before giving them to your dragon. This makes them more nutritious and helps keep your dragon healthy.
- Pick mealworms that match your dragon’s size and age. Smaller worms are better for young dragons to avoid choking or stomach problems.
Acquiring and Storing Mealworms
Where to Buy Mealworms
Finding high-quality mealworms is essential for your bearded dragon’s health. You can purchase them from reputable online stores or local pet shops. Here are some trusted online sources to consider:
- Chubby Dried Mealworms – The #1 Brand of Dried Mealworms in the US
- 10lb French Grown Chubby Dried Mealworms (Non-GMO)
- 20Lbs Chubby Dried Mealworms (4x 5lb Bags)
- 11Lbs Chubby Dried Mealworms
When shopping locally, check the freshness and quality of the mealworms. Look for active, healthy worms without signs of mold or debris.
How to Store Mealworms Safely
Proper storage keeps mealworms fresh and safe for your pet. Follow these tips to maintain their quality:
- Use a large, shallow container with smooth sides to prevent escapes.
- Add 2-3 inches of bedding made from oatmeal or bran.
- Provide fresh vegetables like carrots or potatoes for hydration.
- Keep the container in a cool, dry place with proper ventilation.
- Maintain a temperature of around 75°F for optimal growth.
Regularly clean the container to remove waste and prevent mold or bacterial growth. A thermometer and hygrometer can help you monitor temperature and humidity levels.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Mealworms
Avoid these common pitfalls when purchasing mealworms:
- Buying from unreliable sources that may sell contaminated or unhealthy worms.
- Storing mealworms in airtight containers, which can lead to mold and suffocation.
- Neglecting to check for contaminants like mites, mold, or dead worms.
By sourcing and storing mealworms correctly, you ensure they remain a nutritious and safe pet food option for your bearded dragon.
Preparing Mealworms for Feeding
Gut Loading Mealworms with Nutritious Vegetables
Before feeding mealworms to your bearded dragon, you should gut-load them with nutrient-rich vegetables. This process boosts their nutritional value, making them a healthier pet food option. Gut-loading involves feeding the mealworms fresh, high-quality produce for 24-48 hours before offering them to your dragon.
Here are some excellent vegetables and fruits for gut-loading:
- Carrots
- Collard greens
- Turnip greens
- Apples
Why is gut-loading so important? It ensures the mealworms are packed with essential nutrients like calcium and vitamins. These nutrients help prevent health issues such as metabolic bone disease, which can occur if your dragon doesn’t get enough calcium. Captive insects often lack the variety of nutrients they’d get in the wild, so gut-loading fills that gap.
Tip: Always remove uneaten vegetables from the mealworm container to prevent mold or bacteria growth.
Dusting Mealworms with Calcium and Vitamins
Dusting mealworms is another crucial step to prepare them for your bearded dragon. This involves coating the worms with calcium and vitamin supplements to further enhance their nutritional value. You can use products like ZooMed Repticalcium or Fluker’s Calcium with Vitamin D3.
To dust mealworms, place them in a small plastic bag or container with a pinch of the supplement. Gently shake the container until the worms are evenly coated. This simple step ensures your dragon gets the nutrients it needs for strong bones and overall health.
Note: Avoid over-dusting, as too much calcium can cause health problems. A light, even coating is all you need.
Choosing the Right Size Mealworms for Your Bearded Dragon
Selecting the correct size of mealworms is vital to prevent choking or digestive issues. As a rule of thumb, the mealworms should be smaller than the distance between your dragon’s eyes.
Mealworms come in various sizes, ranging from ¼ inch to 1 inch. For younger dragons, opt for smaller, softer worms, as they’re easier to digest. Feeding large mealworms to juveniles can lead to impaction, a serious condition where food gets stuck in the digestive tract. If you’re unsure, always choose smaller worms to be safe.
Reminder: Watch your dragon while it eats. If it struggles to chew or swallow, the mealworms might be too large.
Feeding Mealworms to Bearded Dragons
Age-Specific Feeding Guidelines
Feeding mealworms to your bearded dragon depends on its age. Younger dragons have different dietary needs compared to adults. Here’s a quick guide to help you:
| Age Group | Feeding Guidelines |
|---|---|
| Baby | Avoid mealworms entirely. Their hard shells can cause intestinal blockages. Stick to softer pet food like crickets or fruit flies. |
| Juvenile | Offer mealworms as an occasional treat, about 1-2 times a week. Focus more on vegetables. |
| Adult | Feed mealworms sparingly, around once a week. Prioritize fruits and vegetables in their diet. |
Mealworms are not suitable for baby dragons because their tough exoskeleton can lead to digestive issues. For juveniles and adults, mealworms can be a fun treat but should never replace their primary diet of greens and other insects.
How Often to Feed Mealworms
Mealworms should only be a small part of your dragon’s diet. Here’s how often you can include them:
- Juveniles (5-18 months): Once or twice a week as a treat. Their diet should mainly consist of vegetables.
- Adults (over 18 months): Once a week is enough. Focus on fruits and vegetables for a balanced diet.
If your dragon is particularly active, you might adjust the frequency slightly. Always monitor their health and energy levels to ensure you’re meeting their needs.
Importance of Moderation and a Varied Diet
Mealworms are a tasty snack for your dragon, but moderation is key. They are high in fat and phosphorus, which can lead to health problems if overfed. Here’s why a varied diet is essential:
- Mealworms should be an occasional treat, not a staple.
- They can entice picky eaters but should be balanced with other insects.
- A mix of greens, fruits, and insects ensures your dragon gets all the nutrients it needs.
For adult dragons, limit mealworms to five or six per feeding. This keeps their diet balanced and prevents issues like obesity or impaction. Remember, a healthy dragon is a happy dragon!
Mealworms can be a great addition to your bearded dragon’s diet when you feed them in moderation. They’re high in fat, so treat them as an occasional snack rather than a staple. Balance their diet with greens, fruits, and other insects like Black Soldier Fly Larvae, which are easier to digest and rich in calcium.
Remember, 80-90% of your dragon’s diet should consist of vegetables, especially dark leafy greens. Mealworms are best for adult dragons, with five or six per feeding being plenty. For juveniles, use them sparingly, and avoid them entirely for babies. Always monitor your dragon’s health and adjust their diet as needed. A varied diet ensures they stay happy and healthy! 🦎
Tip: Hand-feeding mealworms can help you bond with your dragon, but watch out for accidental bites.
FAQ
Can I feed mealworms to my baby bearded dragon?
No, you shouldn’t. Mealworms have hard shells that baby dragons can’t digest. Stick to softer insects like crickets or fruit flies until they grow older.
What should I do if my dragon refuses to eat mealworms?
Try mixing mealworms with vegetables in a shallow dish. The worms will hide under the veggies, encouraging your dragon to eat both. It’s a sneaky but effective trick!
How many mealworms can I feed my adult dragon?
Limit it to five or six mealworms per feeding. Overfeeding can lead to obesity or digestive issues. Always balance their diet with greens and other insects.
Tip: Monitor your dragon’s weight and activity levels to ensure their diet meets their needs. Adjust portions if necessary.
