Live feeder insects are an important part of the diet of many reptiles, amphibians and other insect-eating animals. Different feeders vary in size, moisture content, texture and nutritional characteristics, so choosing an appropriate feeder depends on the species, age and size of the animal being fed.
This guide provides general information about common live feeders and factors to consider when selecting them.
Choosing the Right Feeder Size
Feeder size is one of the most important considerations when feeding insect-eating reptiles.
Young or small reptiles generally require smaller feeders, while larger animals can handle larger prey. An oversized feeder may be difficult for a small animal to capture, swallow or digest.
Because reptiles vary greatly in size and feeding behaviour, always consider the individual animal rather than choosing feeders based only on age.
Silkworms
Silkworms are soft-bodied feeders commonly offered to many insect-eating reptiles.
Their soft bodies make them relatively easy to eat, and they are available in different sizes as they grow. This makes it possible to select an appropriate size for both smaller and larger animals.
Silkworms require suitable food and proper care to remain healthy.
Hornworms
Hornworms are large, soft-bodied caterpillars with a high moisture content.
They grow quickly and can become very large, so their size should be checked before feeding them to smaller reptiles.
Their bright colour and movement can also attract the attention of reptiles that respond strongly to moving prey.
Because of their moisture content, hornworms can be used as part of a varied feeder rotation rather than necessarily being the only feeder offered.
Mealworms and Superworms
Mealworms and superworms are commonly used feeder insects and are relatively easy to store and handle.
Superworms are considerably larger than regular mealworms and are generally more appropriate for animals capable of handling larger feeders.
Because these feeders have a firmer outer body than soft-bodied feeders such as silkworms and hornworms, feeder size and the animal’s ability to consume them should be considered carefully.
Black Soldier Fly Larvae
Black soldier fly larvae are another feeder option for many insect-eating animals.
They are available at different stages and sizes and can be incorporated into a varied feeding routine.
As with other feeders, the appropriate quantity and size depend on the animal being fed.
Fruit Flies
Flightless fruit flies are especially useful for very small insect-eating animals.
They are commonly used for small reptiles, amphibians, young animals and other species that require tiny moving prey.
Different varieties of flightless fruit flies vary in size, making them useful for animals with different feeding requirements.
Crickets and Other Live Feeders
Crickets are active feeders that stimulate natural hunting behaviour in many reptiles.
Because they move quickly, they can provide an opportunity for reptiles to chase and capture prey.
Uneaten live insects should be monitored and removed when appropriate rather than being left in an enclosure indefinitely.
Feeder Variety
Different feeder insects have different characteristics. For this reason, many reptile keepers use more than one type of feeder rather than relying exclusively on a single species.
A varied feeder rotation may include combinations of soft-bodied feeders, larvae and more active insects.
The appropriate combination depends on the reptile’s species, age, size and individual feeding requirements.
Caring for Live Feeders
Live feeders are living animals and require appropriate storage and care.
Temperature, ventilation, food and moisture requirements differ between feeder species. Proper care helps keep feeders active and in suitable condition until they are used.
Always follow the appropriate care instructions for the particular feeder being kept.
Observe Your Reptile
Feeding behaviour can vary between individual animals.
Monitor whether your reptile is eating normally and whether the feeder size appears appropriate. Changes in appetite, difficulty eating or other unusual behaviour should not simply be addressed by continually changing feeder insects.
Understanding the natural diet and feeding behaviour of the species is an important part of responsible reptile care.
Continue Learning
Choosing a suitable feeder is only one part of reptile care. Explore our other guides for additional information:
Reptile Care & Habitat — enclosure setup, temperature, humidity, lighting and everyday care.
Bioactive Terrarium Guide — substrates, plants, springtails and cleanup organisms.
Feeding & Nutrition — feeder variety, feeding considerations and developing an appropriate feeding routine.