Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hello, I`m starting my research into what animal I`m getting next and I am interested in Bearded Dragons. I`ve got almost all the equipment I would need spare so theres not a problem there but, I am a little put off by the diet though...

I`ve got all my other lizards eating meal worms now and I don`t really want to go back to keeping crickets in the house, has anyone ever used the the tubs of dried foods that are available? Are they a good replacement source of food long term? Does anyone know if, generally, bearded dragons take to this food or are they stuck on live crickets?

My other option is buying pre-killed crickets.

On the other hand, what exactly are the risks with feeding meal worms?

Thanks.

Sutmae

Mealworms are hard to digest and can lead to impaction. I would suggest finding a Beardie that is already raised cricket free. Several breeders are raising their dragons on Rep cal, Ectotherm, etc.

Joel R sells crix free babies and I also do. I think a couple others are also raising crix free babies.
-----
Lisa
www.beginnersbasics.com

Cricket FREE babies!

Thanks for the advice, I`ll keep my eyes open for one eating meal worms already. Unfortunatly I live in the UK (could really do with living in Florida though) so I`ll have to have a look around the boards over here.

Sutmae

mealworms should never be fed to young dragons and only occaisonally (no more than one or two at a time, every month or so, or never). Silkworms are another insect alternative that are very nutricious, don't have much of an exoskeleton and are very easy to keep.

Other people use cockroaches (hissing, lobster, death's head and others) or even hornworms (though these may be a bit too big for a baby dragon).

Pellets are also being used alot lately but I never had any real success with them. Only tried one brand but after having no success, didn't want to waste money trying other brands.