Marigolds are a type of flower that is often used in gardening. The flowers have a bright yellow color and they grow in clusters at the end of long stems, but can bearded dragons eat marigolds? Marigolds are often considered one of the best flowers for bees and butterflies. They provide nectar and pollen for pollinators and their bright colors attract them to the flowerbeds.
If you are growing marigolds in your garden or yard, you may wonder if your bearded dragon can eat them.
Yes, bearded dragons can eat marigolds. The flowers are edible, but they should only be fed to them in moderation. This is because marigolds are high in oxalic acid which is dangerous to their health in large amounts.
Why Are Marigold Good For Bearded Dragons?
Besides being high in oxalic acid, marigolds do have some health benefits for your bearded dragons. Marigolds are rich in beta-carotene, which is a powerful antioxidant that can help boost your immune system. Beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A inside the body and it plays an important role in eye health and healthy skin cells.
The plant is also high in vitamin C which helps your pet maintain healthy tissue and bones as well as fight off infections like colds and the flu by boosting their immune system.
Is It Safe For Bearded Dragons To Eat Marigolds?
Some people have wondered if it is safe for bearded dragons to eat marigolds. The answer is yes, but you should take some precautions. Marigolds have a high amount of oxalic acid. This will bind to the calcium, which will prevent it from being absorbed by the body.
Another reason marigolds could be unsafe for bearded dragons is if it’s grown using chemicals such as fertilizers and pesticides. These chemicals may be harmful to your pet and could even cause death if a large enough amount is eaten by them.
Can Baby Bearded Dragons Eat Marigolds?
Baby bearded dragons will eat marigolds, but they should be limited to the amount they can eat. While the flower is high in nutrition, it isn’t one of their staple diets.
At this age, bearded dragons should be on a diet mostly of protein-rich food such as crickets, beetles, and other insects. They need a lot of protein to help with their fast growth. This means their diet should compromise 80% insects and 20% vegetables and fruits.
How To Feed Marigolds To Bearded Dragons
Marigolds can be fed to bearded dragons in a few different ways. You can chop them up and put them in the tank like you would with any other type of food.
You can also place them in a pot or dish and let the bearded dragons eat from there.
Additionally, you could place marigolds in a piece of fruit like orange and feed it to your bearded dragon.
How Often To Feed Marigolds To Bearded Dragons
Marigolds are a type of flower that can be fed to bearded dragons. It is recommended to feed them once or twice per month.
Bearded dragons like to graze and nibble on things throughout the day. So, if you give them marigolds in the morning, they will likely finish all of them off by that evening or early the next morning.
Conclusion
Marigolds are a great source of vitamin A and vitamin C which bearded dragons need to help them grow healthy and strong. While bearded dragons can eat marigolds, it’s not the best form of food for them. Make sure to feed your bearded dragon vegetables like carrots, spinach, and broccoli as well as flowers like dandelions, dianthus, and daisies.
