Can Bearded Dragons Eat Mango?

Mango should only be fed as a treat to Bearded Dragons. Mango has a high level of Vitamin A as well as moderate levels of oxalates. Oxalates can bind with calcium and cause a variety of diseases in Bearded Dragons such as Metabolic Bone Disease [MBD].

This is one of the reasons why mangoes should only make up to 10 to 20% of a Bearded Dragon’s diet. The vitamins and minerals found in mangoes are Manganese, Vitamin C, Potassium, Magnesium, as well as Vitamin A, B6, B5, E and Vitamin K.

Do Bearded Dragons like mangoes?

Bearded dragons like to feed on mango due to their sweetness and soft texture. They love it so much that one can fool them by squeezing some mango juice over the greens. However, mango should be given in moderation as a treat and not as a staple food.

Are mangoes good for Bearded Dragons?

Mangoes contain small amounts of phosphorus and calcium, which is not good for Bearded Dragons as phosphorus binds with calcium and interferes with the Bearded Dragon’s calcium absorption.

Mangoes are a great source of Vitamin A and Vitamin C, which is great positive for Bearded Dragons as these two vitamins should be part of their diet. But one must not overlook the fact that it also contains moderate levels of oxalates, which can bind with calcium, thereby interfering with the calcium absorption mechanism in a Bearded Dragon’s body. 

Rich in Sugar

Mango has sugar in abundance, and excess sugar can cause health issues in Bearded Dragons such as mouth root, digestive issues or tooth decay.

Rich in Vitamin C

Mangoes can provide Bearded Dragons with Vitamin C, which is mainly responsible for maintaining a strong immune system.

Moderate calcium content

Mangoes have a decent level of calcium, which can also benefit young Bearded Dragons, as they require more calcium to develop strong bones.

Nutritional Value of Mango

Here’s a table with the Nutrition Facts for one cup of sliced mango [165 Grams] according to USDA:

How to feed mangoes to Bearded Dragon?

• The first and foremost step is to wash the mango properly since mangoes are sprayed with various chemicals to keep pests away. Washing the mango thoroughly would remove all the herbicides and pesticides. 
• The second step is to remove the skin. As mentioned earlier, the skin of mangoes can pose a choking hazard in Bearded Dragons.
• The third step is to cut the fruit into small pieces to ensure the Bearded Dragon is able to feed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can Bearded Dragons eat mango skin?

No. Bearded dragons should not be served mango skin. The skin of mangoes has zero nutritional value. Mangoes are sprayed with various pesticides to keep the pests away, due to which mango skin is usually covered in pesticides. Additionally, mango skin texture is hard & rough and not sweet or soft as the mango interior. The mango skin poses a choking hazard for the bearded dragons; thus, it is better to remove the skin before feeding.

Can Bearded Dragons eat dried mango?

No, experts always recommend fresh foods. Moreover, dried mango is high in sugar content, which can lead to serious diseases in Bearded Dragons. Since the Bearded Dragons can eat a variety of foods, it has created a myth that it is OK to feed dried fruits to Bearded Dragons.

How much fruit can be served to Bearded Dragons?

It is important to have a varied diet for the Bearded Dragon. Experts have recommended that fruits should only represent 10 to 20% of an adult Bearded Dragon’s diet. One must ensure that it receives its daily dose of nutrients and minerals, and fruits alone are not sufficient. Mangoes can help Bearded Dragon stay strong and healthy.

Can Bearded Dragons eat frozen mangoes?

Most of the nutrients are lost when mangoes are frozen so there is no point of feeding it to the Bearded Dragon.

Can Bearded Dragons eat mango pits? 

No. Mango pit is sturdy and should be removed prior to feeding. Feeding of mango pit can lead to choking hazards in Bearded Dragons. Moreover, the pit is hard to digest.