Leopard geckos are insectivores, meaning their diets should consist almost entirely of bugs. Choosing the right feeder insects is essential for healthy growth, smooth shedding, and preventing nutritional issues like Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD). Here’s a breakdown of the most common feeder options and how they stack up.
Crickets (Acheta domesticus)
Pros:
- High in protein
- Widely available and inexpensive
- Stimulates hunting behavior
Cons:
- Poor calcium-to-phosphorus ratio
- Must be gut-loaded and dusted regularly
- Can bite geckos if left in the enclosure
Summary: A good staple if properly supplemented, but must be used with care.
Mealworms (Tenebrio molitor)
Pros:
- Easy to store
- Convenient for dish feeding
Cons:
- High chitin content (tough outer shell)
- Low in calcium
- Can cause impaction in overfed juveniles
Summary: Fine in moderation; dust with calcium and avoid as a staple for young geckos.
Dubia Roaches (Blaptica dubia)
Pros:
- High in protein and moderate in fat
- Excellent calcium-to-phosphorus ratio
- Doesn’t climb or smell
Cons:
- Less active (may require tong feeding for stimulation)
- Not legal in all areas
Summary: One of the best staple feeders for long-term gecko health.
Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) (Hermetia illucens)
Pros:
- Naturally high in calcium
- Soft-bodied and easy to digest
- No dusting required
Cons:
- Small size limits use to juveniles or small geckos
- May not stimulate hunting behavior
Summary: Excellent calcium booster and supplemental feeder.
Waxworms (Galleria mellonella)
Pros:
- Highly palatable (good for picky eaters)
- Soft-bodied
Cons:
- Very high in fat
- Low in other nutrients
Summary: Use only as an occasional treat or appetite stimulator.
Superworms (Zophobas morio)
Pros:
- High in protein
- Very active and stimulating for hunting
Cons:
- High in fat
- Can bite geckos if not subdued
Summary: Great for adults as a treat; avoid frequent feeding or giving to juveniles.
Hornworms (Manduca sexta)
Pros:
- High in moisture (aids hydration)
- Easy to digest
Cons:
- Large size may be too much for small geckos
- Short shelf life
Summary: A good hydration boost and digestion aid — use sparingly.
Health Considerations
Feeding too many fatty worms like waxworms or superworms can lead to obesity and fatty liver disease. Relying on low-calcium feeders increases the risk of MBD, which causes weakness, deformities, and lethargy. To avoid these issues:
- Dust insects with calcium (with D3 if kept indoors) 3–4 times per week
- Provide a reptile multivitamin once weekly
- Gut-load insects 24–48 hours before feeding
- Avoid wild-caught insects due to pesticide and parasite risks
Feeder Rotation Strategy
Leopard geckos thrive on a varied diet. Ideal staples include dubia roaches, crickets, and BSFL. Supplement with mealworms and superworms, and save waxworms and hornworms for treats only.
Choosing the right feeder rotation helps ensure your gecko lives a long, healthy, and active life.
Need help building a rotation? Check out our curated feeder bundles made specifically for leopard geckos.