Yes, bearded dragons can eat collard greens. Collard greens are considered a superfood for bearded dragons as they are rich in calcium, vitamins A, C, E, and K, fiber, and folate.
Due to their high nutritional value, collard greens can be consumed by bearded dragons daily.
It is important to note that collard greens should not be the only food in a bearded dragon’s diet.
It is not recommended to feed collard greens to bearded dragons every day as they contain oxalates, which can bind to calcium and prevent its absorption.
Nutritional Benefits Of Collard Greens For Bearded Dragons
Collard greens are an excellent source of nutrition for bearded dragons, as they are one of the most nutritious leafy greens. Below are some of the nutritional benefits of collard greens for bearded dragons:
- Calcium: Collard greens are rich in calcium, which is essential for the growth and development of bearded dragons. They provide a natural way to boost your bearded dragon’s daily calcium intake, and mixing a few collards with lower-calcium meals will give your beardie extra calcium without the need for supplements.
- Vitamins: Collard greens are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, which are important for the overall health and well-being of bearded dragons.
- Fiber: Collard greens are a good source of fiber, which can help promote healthy digestion in bearded dragons.
- Low in sugar: Collard greens are low in sugar, which is important for maintaining a healthy diet for bearded dragons.
It is important to note that while collard greens are a healthy food option for bearded dragons, they should not be the only food in their diet.
A balanced diet for bearded dragons should include a variety of vegetables, fruits, and insects to ensure they are getting all the nutrients they need.
Are There Any Risks Associated With Feeding Collard Greens To Bearded Dragons?
Yes, there are some risks associated with feeding collard greens to bearded dragons.
Collard greens are high in calcium and oxalic acid, which can be dangerous in large amounts.
While collard greens are one of the healthiest vegetables for bearded dragons, they should be fed in moderation.
Overfeeding collard greens can cause digestive issues, and a calcium deficiency in bearded dragons is the leading cause of Metabolic Bone Disease, which can be fatal.
Additionally, collard greens are high in oxalates, which can contribute to the formation of kidney stones.
Therefore, it is important to feed collard greens in moderation and to balance them with other vegetables and protein sources in a bearded dragon’s diet.
How Often Should Collard Greens Be Offered To Bearded Dragons?
Collard greens are a healthy food option for bearded dragons due to their high calcium content.
However, it is not recommended to offer collard greens to bearded dragons every day.
Instead, they can be given several times per week, in addition to other greens, bugs, and occasional fruits.
It is important to chop or slice the greens into small pieces to make sure they are small enough for the bearded dragon to chew, and to remove the stems from tougher veggies like collard greens.
Additionally, bearded dragons should eat their greens raw, as they would in the wild.
How To Feed Them Collard Greens?
Collard greens are a nutritious vegetable that can be included in a bearded dragon’s diet. Here are some tips on how to feed collard greens to bearded dragons:
- Serve them raw: Bearded dragons can and should eat their greens raw, as cooking can remove some of the nutrients. Raw collard greens are safe for consumption by bearded dragons and can be served every day without any health concerns.
- Chop or slice them: Chop or slice the collard greens to make sure they are small enough for your bearded dragon to chew. For tougher veggies like collard greens, it can be helpful to massage the leaves and remove the stems first.
- Mix with other foods: Collard greens can be mixed with other foods to provide a natural way to boost your bearded dragon’s daily calcium intake. Simply mixing a few collards with lower-calcium meals will give your beardie extra calcium without the need for supplements.
- Don’t feed every day: While collard greens are safe for bearded dragons, it is not recommended to feed them every day. They contain moderate amounts of oxalates and goitrogens, which can interfere with calcium absorption and thyroid function if consumed in large amounts.
- Store properly: To keep collard greens fresh, rinse them thoroughly and store them in a sealed container in the refrigerator. They can last up to a week if stored properly.
Overall, collard greens can be a healthy addition to a bearded dragon’s diet when fed in moderation and prepared properly.
How To Store Collard Greens Properly For Your Beardie?
To store collard greens properly for your beardie, follow these steps:
- Rinse the collard greens thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- Dry the collard greens thoroughly using a paper towel or salad spinner.
- Remove the twisty tie that holds the bunch of collard greens together.
- Store the unwashed collard greens in their bag with stems at the bottom in the refrigerator.
- To extend the shelf life of collard greens, wrap them in paper towels before storing them in the refrigerator.
By following these steps, you can keep collard greens fresh for your beardie for up to a week or two without signs of wilting.
