Yes, but the amount they should eat all depends on the age of the Bearded Dragon. Juvenile bearded dragons can eat hornworms freely as they need all of the protein and energy they can get. However, as bearded dragons grow older, they need less protein and should transition to dark, leafy green vegetables as a staple of their diets.
What Is The Nutritional Profile in Hornworms?
Hornworms have a high amount of protein and calcium, which makes them very beneficial to young bearded dragons. They contain a moderate amount of fat and a little bit of fiber, making them a good feeder option for adults too. Check out the insects bearded dragons can eat
How Can I Serve Hornworms?
Bearded Dragons should not be given hornworms whole because they can choke on the large size. Instead, they should be cut into smaller chunks or pieces before serving them whole to your pet dragon. Cut larger pieces in half lengthwise, then chop width-wise into two or three pieces depending on the size of the group you are feeding your Bearded Dragon.
What Are The Benefits of Feeding My Bearded Dragon Hornworms?
Hornworms are beneficial because they contain high levels of protein and calcium, along with moderate fat content which is good for dragons. Also, since Bearded Dragons can easily eat hornworms whole, it keeps their food preparation minimal which is important to young bearded dragons that are still maturing.
Another benefit of feeding Bearded Dragons hornworms is that they contain a good amount of water, and since they are largely made up of protein and calcium, you can be sure that your pet Bearded Dragon can easily absorb them into its system.
What Are The Risks of Feeding My Bearded Dragon Hornworms?
There are no risks of feeding your Bearded Dragon hornworms, as long as you feed them a healthy diet. However, it is important to note that you should never give your Bearded Dragon more than 40% protein because this could lead to other health problems such as renal failure or gout.
Another risk is that if you overfeed your Bearded Dragon, it can lead to obesity which could also result in other health problems.
Insects
How Can I Safely Feed My Bearded Dragon Hornworms?
Before you feed your Bearded Dragon hornworms, make sure they are alive and moving. This is because dead insects that aren’t moving could potentially carry microbes that could be dangerous to your Bearded Dragon.
Also, make sure that you serve hornworms straight away after cutting them up. If they are left out for too long, the worms’ digestive enzymes can break down their own tissues and cause harm to your pet Bearded Dragon.
Alternative Foods for Bearded Dragons
If your beardie doesn’t like hornworms you can feed them alternatives such as:
Zucchini, Cucumber and Collard Greens
Zucchini can be served raw, while cucumbers and collard greens should be boiled until their color changes before serving them to your Bearded Dragon.
Mealworms
This is a great choice for feeding both young and adult bearded dragons because they are low in fat and contain high levels of protein.
Superworms
If you want to feed the most nutritious option to your Bearded Dragon, then superworms are a great choice because they contain high levels of protein and calcium. Plus, they’re easier for bearded dragons to digest than other types of worms.
Can Bearded Dragons Eat Hornworms? – The Conclusion
Yes, Bearded Dragons can eat hornworms! However, make sure that you feed them these worms in moderation and as a treat. Also, only feed your Bearded Dragon the type of hornworms they enjoy eating because this is the most important part about feeding your beardie safe and nutritious food.