Yes, wax worms can be eaten by bearded dragons, but they should be fed in moderation as they are high in fat and shouldn’t be a staple food.
Wax worms can be beneficial for malnourished bearded dragons or those who have gone off their staple food.
The wax worms are soft and small, so they’re easy to eat. You shouldn’t feed too many wax worms to an adult bearded dragon because feeding too many can make him obese later on.
A bearded dragon usually loves wax worms, and they can be good for a bearded dragon that’s malnourished, undereating or has run off its staple food.
Nutritional Benefits Of Wax Worms For Bearded Dragons
Wax worms are a popular food for bearded dragons, but there are both pros and cons to feeding them to your pet. Here are some of the nutritional benefits of wax worms for bearded dragons:
- Moisture: Despite the wax worm’s low calcium-to-phosphorus ratio, it provides a decent amount of moisture that helps in hydrating your bearded dragon.
- Calories and Protein: Wax worms are high in calories and protein, which can be beneficial for young dragons, gravid (pregnant) females, or underweight dragons who need an extra boost.
However, there are also some drawbacks to feeding wax worms to bearded dragons. For example:
- High-Fat Content: Wax worms are high in fat and low in calcium, so feeding them too often can lead to health problems such as obesity and metabolic bone disease.
- Low Nutritional Value: Wax worms are low in protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients required by bearded dragons for optimal health.
Overall, while wax worms can provide some nutritional benefits for bearded dragons, they should be fed in moderation and as part of a balanced diet that includes other insects and vegetables.
Are There Any Risks Associated With Feeding Wax Worms To Bearded Dragons?
Feeding wax worms to bearded dragons can have both benefits and risks. Here are some of the pros and cons of feeding wax worms to bearded dragons:
Pros:
- Wax worms are high in fat, carbohydrates, and protein, making them a good source of nutrition for malnourished or underfed bearded dragons.
- They can be used as a treat or supplement to a bearded dragon’s regular diet.
Cons:
- Wax worms are very high in fat and low in calcium, so feeding them too often can lead to health problems such as obesity and metabolic bone disease.
- They are not a suitable staple food for bearded dragons, as they are low in protein and can lead to weight gain or growth problems in younger dragons.
- Feeding wax worms in large quantities can cause digestive problems and impaction, especially in younger bearded dragons.
In summary, while wax worms can be fed to bearded dragons occasionally as a treat or supplement, they should not be a regular part of their diet due to their high-fat content and low nutritional value.
It is important to feed bearded dragons a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods to ensure their health and well-being.
How Often Should Wax Worms Be Offered To Bearded Dragons?
When it comes to feeding wax worms to bearded dragons, the frequency and amount can vary depending on the age and size of the dragon. Here are some guidelines based on the search results: For adult bearded dragons:
- Offer 2-3 wax worms per week.
- Offer 3-5 wax worms every 3 days.
- Feed 3-5 worms 3 times a week.
- Feed no more than 5-6 wax worms per day.
- Offer a small handful of around 5-6 wax worms as an occasional treat.
For baby bearded dragons:
- Feed 3-5 wax worms per day spread out across several feedings.
It’s important to note that wax worms should not be the sole source of nutrition for bearded dragons.
They should be offered as part of a varied diet that includes other insects and vegetables.
Wax worms are high in fat, so feeding them in moderation is recommended to avoid obesity issues. Always monitor your bearded dragon’s weight and adjust the feeding accordingly.
How To Feed Them Wax Worms?
To feed wax worms to bearded dragons, follow these guidelines:
- Occasional Treat: Wax worms should be offered as an occasional treat and not as a staple food item. They are high in fat and should be given in moderation.
- Supplement with Calcium: If you use supplements such as wax worms or Calciworms®, feed your bearded dragons three to five wax worms or Calciworms® three times per week. This helps ensure they receive the necessary nutrients.
- Quantity: Offer three to five wax worms at a time. This quantity is suitable for feeding sessions.
- Frequency: Feed wax worms to your bearded dragons three times per week. This allows for variety in their diet and prevents overfeeding.
- Safety: It is safe for bearded dragons to eat wax worms. However, they should not be fed too often due to their high-fat content.
Remember to always provide a balanced diet for your bearded dragons. Wax worms should be offered as a treat alongside other appropriate insects and vegetables to ensure a well-rounded diet.
How To Store Wax Worms Properly For Your Beardie?
To store wax worms properly for your beardie, follow these tips:
- Temperature: The ideal temperature for wax worms is around 55°F, which is slightly cooler than most household temperatures. You can store them in a wine cooler, a butter tray on the door of your refrigerator, or a slightly warmer wine cooler.
- Ventilation: Wax worms require ventilation, so it is best to store them in a container with holes or a paper bag. This will allow air to circulate and prevent them from suffocating.
- Moisture: Wax worms require moisture to survive, but too much moisture can cause them to die. To prevent this, you can add a moist paper towel to the container, but be sure to change it regularly to avoid mold growth.
- Shelf life: Wax worms can live for 1-2 months, even with minimal food, if stored between 55℉-60℉.
It is important to note that wax worms should be fed to your beardie as a treat, not as a staple food item. They are high in fat content and should be offered as a snack a few times a week.
