Can Geckos Eat Wax Worms? A Comprehensive Guide for Crested, Leopard and Other Species

by

Wax worms are the larvae of the wax moth (Galleria mellonella). They are a common feeder insect for reptiles, birds, and other small animals. Wax worms are high in fat and protein, which makes them a nutritious food source for geckos. They are also soft-bodied and easy to digest, which makes them a good food choice for young or sick geckos.

Why Are People Feeding Wax Worms to Geckos?

Gecko owners are feeding wax worms to their pets for a variety of reasons. Wax worms are a convenient and nutritious food source that can be purchased at most pet stores. They are also easy to prepare and can be stored for long periods of time. Some gecko owners also report that their pets enjoy the taste of wax worms and will readily eat them.

Geckos and Wax Worms: A Comprehensive Guide

Gecko Species That Can Eat Wax Worms

Most species of geckos can eat wax worms, including crested geckos, leopard geckos, and gargoyle geckos. However, it is important to note that wax worms should not be the sole food source for any gecko species. A varied diet of insects is essential to meet the nutritional needs of geckos.

Health Benefits of Wax Worms for Geckos

Wax worms are high in fat and protein, which makes them a nutritious food source for geckos. They are also soft-bodied and easy to digest, which makes them a good food choice for young or sick geckos. In addition, the chitin in wax worm exoskeletons can aid digestion and regulate gut flora in geckos.

Potential Risks of Feeding Wax Worms to Geckos

While wax worms can be a healthy food source for geckos, they should not be fed exclusively. A diet high in fat can lead to obesity and other health problems in geckos. In addition, wax worms have a high chitin content, which can cause impaction if fed in excess. Impaction occurs when the digestive tract becomes blocked by undigested food, which can lead to serious health problems.

How to Feed Wax Worms to Geckos

Preparing the Wax Worms

Wax worms should be purchased from a reputable pet store. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Before feeding to geckos, the wax worms should be removed from the refrigerator and allowed to come to room temperature. This will make them easier for geckos to digest.

Frequency of Feeding Wax Worms

Wax worms should not be fed to geckos more than once a week. A varied diet of insects is essential to meet the nutritional needs of geckos. Wax worms should be considered a treat and not a staple food source.

How Many Wax Worms to Feed Geckos

The number of wax worms to feed geckos depends on the size and species of the gecko. As a general rule, adult geckos should be fed no more than three to four wax worms per week. Juvenile geckos should be fed no more than one to two wax worms per week.

Alternatives to Wax Worms

Other Insects That Geckos Can Eat

Geckos should be fed a varied diet of insects to meet their nutritional needs. Some other insects that geckos can eat include crickets, mealworms, superworms, and roaches. In addition, geckos can also be fed small amounts of fruits and vegetables such as papaya, mango, and carrot.

Benefits of Feeding a Variety of Foods

Feeding a variety of foods is essential for the health of geckos. A varied diet can help prevent nutritional deficiencies and can also provide mental stimulation for geckos. In addition, feeding a variety of foods can help prevent geckos from becoming finicky eaters.

Conclusion

While wax worms can be a nutritious food source for geckos, they should not be fed exclusively. A varied diet of insects and small amounts of fruits and vegetables is essential to meet the nutritional needs of geckos. Wax worms should be considered a treat and not a staple food source. As with any food, it is important to monitor your gecko’s health and adjust their diet accordingly.

ThePetFaq Team
Latest posts by ThePetFaq Team (see all)