If you wonder can bearded dragons eat red worms? then the answer is yes! As a reptile enthusiast and proud owner of a bearded dragon, I’ve been asked the question repeatedly – can bearded dragons eat red worms? And the answer is yes, they absolutely can! Red worms are a fantastic source of essential fats and proteins for keeping your bearded dragon healthy and happy.
However, it’s important to note that not all worms are created equal. While red worms are generally safe and nutritious for your pet, others may pose a potential health risk. As a responsible pet owner, providing your bearded dragon with a varied diet of different vitamins and nutrients is crucial.
And adding red worms to their diet is a great way to ensure they get the essential fats and proteins they need to thrive. So, if you’re considering adding red worms to your bearded dragon’s diet, try it – your pet will thank you for it!
Table of Contents
What Are Red Worms?
Red worms, also known as red wrigglers, are not just ordinary worms. These little creatures are closely related to earthworms and are the backbone of the natural recycling process in your garden.
They consume vegetable scraps, which are crucial in plant growth and structure. But did you know that they also make a delicious and nutritious treat for your bearded dragons?
These long and sticky worms pack a big punch when it comes to protein and hydration, making them a perfect addition to your pet’s diet. Treat your bearded dragons to a tasty and healthy snack with red worms!
Nutritional Facts: Can Bearded Dragons Eat Red Worms Wiggler?
Red worms, also known as red wrigglers, are not only beneficial for composting and as a treat for pets like bearded dragons, but they are also packed with nutritional benefits for humans.
Here are some nutritional facts about red worms:
Protein
Red worms are an excellent source of protein, containing protein by dry weight. This high protein content makes them a popular food choice for many animals, including humans.
Vitamins and Minerals
Red worms are also rich in vitamins and minerals such as calcium, iron, and magnesium, making them a nutritious addition to a balanced diet.
Fatty Acid
Red worms are a good source of essential fatty acids, such as Omega-3 and Omega-6. These fatty acids play a vital role in maintaining good health, including supporting brain function, reducing inflammation, and improving heart health.
According to Healthline:
| NUTRIENTS | PERCENTAGE |
| Magnesium | 0.2-0.3% |
| Phosphorus | 0.7-0.8% |
| Calcium | 1-3% |
| Protein | 60-70% |
| Copper | 12-20 mg/kg |
| Zinc | 47-88 mg/kg |
| Fat | 20-30% |
How to Feed Your Bearded Dragon Red Worms?
Bearded dragons are popular pets that require a well-balanced diet to thrive. Red worms just like hornworms are a great addition to their diet, providing protein and other essential nutrients.
Here are some tips on how to feed your bearded dragon red worms.
1: Choosing the Right Red Worms
When selecting red worms, it is essential to choose healthy ones. Look for worms that are active, plump, and free from any visible signs of disease or decay.
2: Preparing the Red Worms
Before feeding your bearded dragon, you need to prepare the red worms. Rinse them in lukewarm water to remove any dirt or debris.
3: Feeding the Red Worms
Place the red worms in a shallow dish and offer them to your bearded dragon. They will instinctively know to hunt and eat the worms. Monitor your bearded dragon during feeding to ensure they do not overeat or struggle with swallowing the worms.
4: Frequency of Feeding
Red worms can be fed to your bearded dragon once or twice a week, depending on their age and size. Younger bearded dragons require more protein and should be fed more frequently than adults.
PRO TIP: I suggest dusting the red worms with calcium and vitamin D3 powder before feeding them to your bearded dragon. This will help prevent calcium deficiency and promote healthy bone growth.
Health Benefits of Feeding Bearded Dragon Red Worms
Bearded dragons are known to be omnivorous, and they require a balanced diet to thrive. Red worms are a popular food item for bearded dragons, and they can provide several health benefits when included in their diet.
Here are some of the benefits:
High in protein: Red worms are an excellent source of protein, which is essential for the growth and development of bearded dragons. Protein is also necessary for maintaining muscle mass, repairing tissues, and supporting the immune system.
Rich in nutrients: Red worms are a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin B12. These nutrients are important for maintaining healthy bones, teeth, and the nervous system.
Promotes digestion: Red worms contain chitin, a fibrous substance that promotes healthy digestion in bearded dragons. Chitin helps break down food in the gut and can prevent constipation and other digestive issues.
Variety in the diet: Bearded dragons require a varied diet to prevent boredom and ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients. Adding red worms to their diet provides a different taste and texture than other food items, which can help stimulate their appetite.
However, it’s important to note that red worms should not be the sole source of nutrition for bearded dragons. They should be part of a balanced diet that includes a variety of vegetables, fruits, and other protein sources, such as crickets and mealworms.
EXPERT TIP: I recommend feeding red worms as an occasional treat rather than a staple food item. Bearded dragons require a diverse diet that includes a variety of insects, vegetables, and fruits to maintain optimal health.
What Are The Risks of Feeding My Bearded Dragon Red Worms?
Are you considering adding red worms to your bearded dragon’s diet? While this food item has plenty of benefits, there are also some risks to keep in mind.
One significant risk is that the worms can crawl out of the tank if they sense a way to escape. This means that you need to keep a close eye on them and be prepared to stop any potential escape attempts. Further, if they are exposed to light while trying to escape, it could lead to blindness.
Another risk of feeding your bearded dragon red worms is the high-fat content. While moderate fat is healthy for your pet, overfeeding can lead to obesity and other health issues. Maintaining a balanced diet that includes various food items, including vegetables, fruits, and other protein sources, is crucial.
EXPERT TIP: I advise feeding the red worms one at a time with tweezers to prevent your bearded dragon from accidentally ingesting substrate or other foreign objects.
Why Should You Avoid Feeding Beardy Earthworms from Your Garden?
While feeding your bearded dragon earthworms may seem like a simple and unique option, it is important to avoid feeding them earthworms from your garden.
Here are some reasons why.
Chemical Contamination
Earthworms from your garden may have come into contact with pesticides or other harmful chemicals, which can be toxic to your bearded dragon. These chemicals can be absorbed into the earthworm’s body and pose a risk to your pet’s health.
Wild Earthworms Harbor Parasites
Earthworms from your garden may harbor parasites that can be harmful to your bearded dragon. These parasites can cause a range of health problems, including digestive issues and infections. It is difficult to determine if the earthworms you have collected are free from parasites, so it is best to avoid feeding them to your pet altogether.
What Other Worms Can You Feed Your Bearded Dragon?
Along with insects like crickets, mealworms, and Dubia roaches, there are several other worms you can feed your bearded dragon as part of a balanced diet.
Here are a few options:
1. Superworms are larger than mealworms and have a higher fat content, so they should be fed in moderation. They are a good source of protein and can be given as an occasional treat.
2. Also known as calciworms, these are the larvae of the black soldier fly. They are high in calcium and other nutrients, making them a nutritious addition to your bearded dragon’s diet.
3. Silkworms are another good source of protein and can be fed to bearded dragons. They are also high in calcium and other nutrients.
4. Hornworms are a good source of hydration, as they are mostly made up of water. They are also high in protein and can be fed to bearded dragons as an occasional treat.
5. Waxworms are high in fat and should be fed sparingly, but they can be a good source of nutrition for growing bearded dragons. They are a good source of protein and can be given as an occasional treat.
Can Bearded Dragons Eat Big Reds Worms?
Bearded dragons can eat red worms, but avoiding feeding them large worms is recommended to prevent choking. Instead, choose red worms no bigger than the space between their eyes.
You can cut larger worms into smaller pieces if you want to feed them. It is also important to ensure that the red worms are healthy and free from parasites or diseases.
Can Bearded Dragons Eat Red Earthworms?
Bearded dragons can eat red earthworms, but it is important to avoid feeding them wild-caught earthworms from your garden as they may contain harmful chemicals or parasites. Instead, you can purchase commercially-raised red worms from a pet store or online retailer.
Rinse the worms thoroughly before feeding them to your bearded dragon.
Can Bearded Dragons Eat Red Wigglers?
Red wigglers, also known as compost worms, are not commonly fed to bearded dragons as they provide less nutritional value than other worms, such as mealworms or crickets.
While they are safe for bearded dragons to consume, they should be offered as an occasional treat rather than a staple part of their diet. As with any worms, it is important to ensure that the red wigglers are healthy and free from any contaminants before feeding them to your bearded dragon.
FAQS
How Often Can You Feed Red Worms to Your Bearded Dragon?
Red worms can be fed to bearded dragons as a treat once or twice a week, in addition to their regular diet of vegetables, fruits, and insects. Overfeeding red worms can lead to digestive issues and should be avoided.
Do Worms Affect The Digestive System Of Bearded Dragons?
Worms can be a good source of protein for bearded dragons but overfeeding can cause digestive problems such as impaction. It’s important to feed worms as part of a balanced diet and in moderation.
Where Can I Buy Red Worms?
You can buy red worms at a local bait shop or pet store or online through websites such as Amazon or Uncle Jim’s Worm Farm. Make sure to research the type of red worm you need for your intended use, such as composting or fishing.
Conclusion For Can Bearded Dragons Eat Red Worms?
Ensure you’re buying from a reputable supplier and that the worms are properly sized for your dragon’s age and size. You’ll also want to “gut load” the worms with nutritious foods to ensure your dragon gets the maximum benefit from them. As with any new food item, it’s important to introduce red worms gradually and monitor your dragon’s reaction. But if all goes well, feeding red worms can be a fun and nutritious way to diversify your dragon’s diet. So give your dragon a little extra wiggle in their meals!
