Can Bearded Dragons Eat Flies? Here’s What You Need to Know

Bearded dragons are a popular type of pet reptile that are known for their docile nature and unique appearance. Like other reptiles, they require a specific diet to stay healthy and thrive. While many owners may be tempted to offer their bearded dragons a variety of different foods, it’s important to know which foods are safe and which ones should be avoided.

One question that many bearded dragon owners may have is whether or not their pets can eat flies. The answer is yes, bearded dragons can eat flies. However, it’s important to note that flies do not provide adequate nutrition compared to other insects that are commonly fed to bearded dragons. While pet store flies are generally safe to feed, other types of flies should not be fed regularly due to the risk of bacterial contamination.

Is It Safe for Bearded Dragons to Eat Insects and Small Animals Like Mice?

Yes, it is safe for bearded dragons to eat insects and small animals like mice as long as the prey is appropriately sized and not too large for them to swallow. When considering bearded dragons and mice feeding, be sure to offer a well-rounded diet to ensure their nutritional needs are met.

Are Insects Safe for Bearded Dragons to Eat?

Yes, bearded dragons can eat insects, including jumping spiders. However, it’s important to ensure that the insects are safe for consumption and not harmful to the bearded dragon. Always check with a veterinarian before introducing any new type of insect to your bearded dragon’s diet.

Can Bearded Dragons Eat Flies?

Bearded dragons are omnivores and require a balanced diet of both meat and veggies to meet their nutritional requirements. While they can eat a variety of live foods, including insects and worms, can they eat flies?

Nutritional Value of Flies

Flies, including house flies and fruit flies, are not toxic to bearded dragons and can be consumed by them. However, there is no known nutritional value to eating any type of fly. Flies are low in protein and other nutrients that bearded dragons need to thrive. Therefore, it is not recommended to feed them flies regularly.

Dangers of Feeding Flies

Flies, especially wild-caught flies, may carry diseases and parasites that can harm your bearded dragon. Flies can pick up germs and bacteria from their surroundings, including feces, and can pass them on to your pet. Additionally, flies are scavengers and can carry diseases that can be harmful to human beings.

Alternatives to Flies

There are many other insects and worms that bearded dragons can eat that provide more nutritional value than flies. Some of these include roaches, fruit flies, dubia roaches, silkworms, beetles, and wasps. It is important to gut-load and dust these insects with vitamin and mineral supplements before feeding them to your bearded dragon.

Feeding Flies in Moderation

If you do choose to feed your bearded dragon flies, it should be done in moderation. Pet store flies are a safer option than wild-caught flies, but they still offer little nutritional value. It is best to eliminate flies from your bearded dragon’s diet and focus on providing them with a balanced diet that includes a variety of live insects, veggies, and fruits.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while bearded dragons can eat flies, they should not be a regular part of their diet. Flies offer little nutritional value and can carry diseases and parasites that can be harmful to your pet. It is important to provide your bearded dragon with a balanced diet that meets their dietary requirements and to ensure they are living in a clean environment. As a bearded dragon owner or reptile enthusiast, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers of unclean creatures such as flies and to take steps to keep your pet safe and healthy.