Hornworms for Reptiles: A Moisture-Rich, Easy-to-Digest Feeder
If you’re caring for a bearded dragon, you already know variety matters. Hornworms (Manduca sexta) have earned their place as a go-to feeder insect thanks to their high moisture content, soft bodies, and bright green color that triggers strong feeding responses. While they're especially popular with beardies, they’re also great for many large insectivores.
Why Bearded Dragons Love Hornworms
Hornworms are soft, slow-moving, and easy to digest—perfect for both juveniles and adults. Their vibrant color and gentle motion grab attention fast. They’re especially useful during:
- Shedding cycles
- Recovery from illness
- Dehydration or heat stress
- Periods of low appetite
Hydration Support
Hornworms are made up of over 85% moisture, which makes them ideal for keeping reptiles hydrated—especially those that don’t drink from standing water or live in dry climates.
Low Fat, Calcium-Rich, and Digestible
Compared to high-fat feeders like mealworms or superworms, hornworms are:
- Low in fat
- High in digestibility
- Supportive of proper calcium intake when gut-loaded
This makes them a solid rotation feeder to complement your staple insects and help balance calcium-to-phosphorus ratios.
More Than Just for Beardies
Hornworms are also an excellent choice for:
- Monitors
- Tegus
- Chameleons
- Uromastyx (in small quantities)
- Other large insectivorous reptiles
Feeding and Storage Tips
- Offer with tongs or in a shallow dish
- Store at 50–55°F to slow growth
- Use as a supplemental, not staple, feeder
- Limit quantity—hornworms are large and water-heavy
Size and Growth
Hornworms grow fast—up to 4 inches in just a few days. They’re available in different sizes so you can match them to your reptile’s feeding needs without overdoing it.
Summary
Hornworms offer high moisture, easy digestibility, and great palatability. They're a perfect way to boost hydration, especially in picky eaters or reptiles recovering from stress. Whether you keep beardies, chameleons, or monitors, adding hornworms to your rotation can improve appetite, hydration, and overall well-being.
Ready to try them? Order hornworms here: https://tastycritters.com/products/hornworms