I just acquired a young bearded dragon. Based on his size I'd say he is between 3 to 6 weeks old. I am concerned because ever since I brought him home he has not eaten much. I tried feeding him chopped up crickets (due to his lack of size) and he wont open his mouth to eat! My brother was able to feed him a tad bit of spinach today, but other than that he won't eat. Should I be alarmed? I brought him home two days ago. The first day he didn't move much, and today he seems much more energetic. I believe this is due to his adjusting to his new home. Is this feeding problem related to that? Should i be concerned? Any ideas?
P.S. I tried hand feeding him and feeding him by spoon as I have not yet purchased chopsticks or tongs to feed him with.
It is called relocation stress and is very normal. He may not eat till up to a week. Just give him time to adjust and probably should not handle him right away either. Make sure all of your temps are good also. Offer food smaller than the size of his mouth, and don't pressure him. He should be fine in a few days or a week.
Can't you get small crickets? at the petshops in the UK you can buy TINY TINY crickets for babys.
Your beardie might go for actual live crickets as the movement will trigger his hunting instincts! my beardie won't touch anything that isn't moving (that includes his veg :roll: )
I got some small crickets from the local pet shop and watched Na'vi gobble a couple right up. She hasn't warmed up to the idea of me hand feeding, but we can wait on that. Thank you so much for your insight! You probably saved her life.
Well, he isn't exactly sure whether he wants to breed them or not. I asked him today and he'd love the money, but he isn't sure it'd be worth his time. He's only 17, so I have no idea what he'll do.