Food insects for reptiles – how to choose and serve a feeder?

For insectivorous lizards, food insects are not an addition to the diet – they are its foundation. The leopard gecko, bearded agama, chameleon or young hognose snake need regular access to live or fresh insects. The health, condition and lifespan of your reptile depend on the quality of the feeder.

Why are insects important?

Insects provide:

• Protein – the building block of muscles, crucial for growth
• Chitin – supports the digestive system
• Fats – a source of energy (but harmful in excess)
• Micro and macroelements – with proper supplementation

Too monotonous a diet leads to deficiencies, apathy, poor molting, bone deformities and neurological problems.

Types of feed insects and their properties

Crickets – the basis of the insectivorous diet

Crickets are the most popular food for reptiles. Active, they stimulate the hunting instinct, have a good protein-to-fat ratio. Fresh ProBugs crickets are ready-made, portioned feeders without the need to maintain colonies.

Mealworm larvae – an energetic snack

Flour is high in fats – ideal as a reward and supplement, but not as a staple of a diet. Too much can lead to obesity. Fresh mealworm larvae 20g is a convenient, portioned package.

Karachans (dubie, Turkish) – a valuable food

Argentine cockroaches (dubie) have an excellent nutritional profile – low in fat, high in protein. They do not jump and do not make noises – convenient to use. Dubia ProBugs cockroaches are a ready-made portion without breeding.

Wood-eating larvae – a delicacy for larger reptiles

The large larvae of the wood-eater are a satiating food for agamas, clilimatous geckos and larger lizards. High fat content – serve occasionally, as a variety. Woodworm larvae 20g ProBugs.

Grasshoppers and locusts – diversifying the diet

Excellent for agamas, chameleons and ciliated geckos. Active, they stimulate hunting. ProBugs Grasshoppers 8 pcs. This is a convenient option without breeding.

How to feed insects safely?

• Gut loading – before serving, feed the insects with vegetables and special mixtures. The insect becomes a better carrier of nutrients
• Supplementation – sprinkle insects with calcium with vitamin D3 immediately before administration
• Tweezers – feed insects with tweezers for safety. Straight tweezers 45cm are a comfortable size for most lizards
• Hygiene – do not leave dead insects in the terrarium. Neglect leads to mold and bacteria

How to choose the size of an insect?

As a general rule: the insect should be smaller than the distance between the reptile’s eyes . Insects that are too large cause digestive problems and can injure the reptile. For juveniles, always choose smaller sizes and gradually increase them.