Lizards have diverse diets depending on their species, generally classified as herbivores, insectivores, carnivores, or omnivores:
- Herbivorous lizards eat mostly plants, including leafy greens (collard greens, turnip greens, kale, dandelion), vegetables (squash, sweet potatoes, broccoli), and fruits (berries, apples, mangoes) in moderation
- Insectivorous lizards feed primarily on insects such as crickets, mealworms, beetles, spiders, caterpillars, cockroaches, and earthworms. These protein-rich foods are essential for their growth
- Carnivorous lizards consume mainly small animals and insects, including mice and sometimes larger prey for big species. Some large carnivorous lizards can even eat mammals like pigs
- Omnivorous lizards eat a combination of plants, fruits, vegetables, insects, and small animals. Examples include bearded dragons, which enjoy vegetables, fruits like strawberries and melons, and insects such as crickets and mealworms
Wild lizards are opportunistic feeders and will eat whatever fits their nutritional needs and is available, including insects, spiders, small animals, fruits, and vegetables
. They also require fresh water, either by drinking or absorbing it through their skin in some cases
. In summary, what lizards eat depends on their species and natural diet, ranging from strictly insects or plants to a varied diet of both animals and vegetation.
