Walnut Shell Bedding

[avahsanimals]

Thoughts on walnut shell bedding for bearded dragons? Or reptiles in general? Seems like a slightly better alternative to sand but I’m not sure

[phenyx]

I don't think it would hold moisture very well so probably wouldn't be good for animals that need higher humidity levels.

[chairman]

Walnut shell should generally be avoided. It is easier for an animal to become impacted with walnut shells vs, say, coconut coir. Calcium sand should also be avoided but play sand is fine, especially when mixed with clean soil or coconut coir.

When it comes to substrate, a properly heated and hydrated animal can be kept on just about anything. But if there's an inbalance and conditions aren't right, your animal becomes slightly dehydrated, then less ideal substrates like crushed walnut shells can cause serious issues. Things like coconut coir are more forgiving of temporary mistakes in husbandry.