Bearded dragons are omnivorous, meaning they eat both plant and animal-based foods, including insects. Vegetables can be offered cooked or raw, although raw is more natural and retains more nutrients. Thoroughly wash all fruits and vegetables. They should be finely chopped and mixed to ensure your bearded dragon eats a wide variety of food types and to discourage the selection of a single preferred food item. Here is a list of safe vegetables that bearded dragons can eat:
- Kale
- Asparagus (Raw)
- Butternut squash
- Yellow squash
- Acorn squash
- Spaghetti squash
- Butterworms
- Celery
- Peeled Cucumber
- Yams (Raw)
- Turnip greens
- Collard greens
- Mustard greens
- Zucchini (Raw)
- Okra (Raw)
- Raddicchio
- Bell Peppers (Raw)
- Cabbage (Raw)
- Artichoke Heart
- Bok choy
- Carrots
- Endive
- Pumpkins
- Parsnips
- Cooked Lentils
- Chicory
Fruits may be preferred by your bearded dragon but are generally mineral-poor and should be fed sparingly as top dressing only. Here are some fruits that are safe for Bearded Dragons to eat on a limited basis:
- Apples
- Peaches
- Strawberries
- Apricot
- Blackberries
- Blueberries
- Cranberries
It is important to note that some vegetables should be fed sparingly, as they contain oxalates that can bind calcium and other trace minerals, preventing their absorption. Diets composed primarily of these foods can lead to nutrient deficiencies. Additionally, bearded dragons have a higher need for dietary calcium than phosphorus, especially when they are young and their bones are growing. Generally, veterinarians recommend that you LIGHTLY sprinkle a ‘Phosphorus-free’ calcium powder (calcium gluconate, lactate, or carbonate) on their food daily.
