Can Beardies eat dead locusts?
Bearded dragons can eat dead locusts, but it’s important to note that live insects are much more beneficial for their diet. While dead insects can be used as a supplement, they do not provide the same nutritional value as live insects.
Bearded dragons are insectivores, and their diet primarily consists of live insects when they are young. As they grow older, their protein requirements decrease, but they still require some live insects in their diet for optimal health. Younger dragons need around 80% live protein, while adults only need about 20% live protein in their diet.
Live insects are an excellent source of nutrients such as protein, vitamins, and minerals. They provide essential amino acids that are important for growth, muscle development, and overall health. Live insects also provide mental stimulation for bearded dragons, as they engage in hunting and foraging behaviors while catching their prey.
On the other hand, dead insects have some drawbacks when it comes to their nutritional value. They start losing nutrients as soon as they die, and the longer they remain dead, the more their nutritional content decreases. This is especially true for vitamin content, which can degrade rapidly after death.
While dead locusts can still be fed to bearded dragons, they should not be the sole source of insects in their diet. It is best to offer a variety of live insects, such as crickets, mealworms, and dubia roaches, to ensure a well-rounded and nutritious diet for your dragon.
Feeding live insects also provides opportunities for enrichment and promotes natural behaviors. Bearded dragons enjoy chasing and hunting their prey, which can help keep them mentally stimulated and physically active. This is particularly important for captive dragons to prevent boredom and encourage natural instincts.
While bearded dragons can eat dead locusts, it is recommended to primarily feed them live insects. Live insects offer superior nutritional value and provide mental stimulation for your dragon. Incorporating a variety of live insects into their diet ensures they receive the necessary nutrients for optimal health and well-being.