Bugging Out: The Ultimate Bug Feeding Guide for Crested and Gargoyle Geckos
Disclosure: Please note that this article contains affiliate links. This means that if you click on those links and make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products and services that we have personally used and believe will add value to our readers. Your support through these affiliate links helps us continue to provide valuable content. Thank you for your support!
Ever wondered about adding a buggy twist to your gecko's diet? If you've been puzzled about where to start or faced the dreaded disinterest from your gecko, I’ve got your back. Unraveling the mystery of bugs in the diet of crested and gargoyle geckos, I’m here to show you how to ace the bug-feeding game for your gecko's ultimate well-being!
Selecting the Right Bugs for Your Geckos
Bugs might not dominate, but they sure are a tasty and enriching part of your gecko's diet! While you don't need a bug bonanza, switching things up can be quite the treat. Some crested and gargoyle geckos have quite the bug appetite and trying different bugs can help get a gecko who isn’t that interested in bugs eating them. Remember, the bugs should always be smaller than the width between their eyes. Check out these bug options:
Crickets: Protein-packed snacks you can easily snag at the pet store.
Dubia Roaches: A roach rave! Easier to keep alive, odor-free, and less likely to play hide-and-seek in your home. Keep in mind they might be restricted in certain areas.
Mealworms: A monthly munch! These are harder, so don't overindulge your gecko. They're simple to keep and offer occasionally.
Black Soldier Fly Larva: Don't be grossed out! These little maggots are nutritional powerhouses. High calcium, balanced fats, and proteins for a healthy feast.
For special occasions, think silkworms, hornworms, wax worms, and butter worms – they're the dessert of the bug world. Keep treats on the down-low though, as you wouldn't want to overindulge your gecko.
Creating a Balanced Bug Feeding Schedule
Let's dish out the deets on when and how to treat your geckos to their bug bounty. A balanced bug feeding schedule ensures they're getting their nutritional fix without going overboard.
Age Matters: Growing geckos are like hungry little athletes – they need more fuel. Young geckos can enjoy bugs 1 to 2 times a week, while adults should be offered bugs once a week.
Don't Forget Gecko Diet: The most important part of your gargoyle or crested gecko’s diet is a high-quality commercially available food such as Pangea or Repashy. If your gecko isn’t eating their gecko food then you should avoid feeding bugs until they are eating well. Remember that a healthy gecko won’t allow themselves to starve to death.
Gut-Loading Magic: It's like prepping for a gecko feast! Feed your bugs nutrient-rich foods before they become dinner. Your geckos will thank you for the extra goodness.
Portion Control: Remember, size matters. The portion should be around the size of your gecko's head. This is usually two to four bugs of an appropriate size. This way, they can enjoy themselves without any issues. Each bug should be around the width of the gecko’s head (between it’s eyes). The bug can be longer than this, but this general rule will help you know how big of a bug your gecko can take down.
Don’t Forget to Dust: Bugs bred in captivity are high in phosphorus so you should always dust your bugs with calcium. If you grecko has regular access to a UVB light in their enclosure you should dust all the bugs with calcium without D3. If your gecko doesn’t have access to a UVB light in their enclosure you should dust all the bugs with calcium with D3.
Never Feed Wild Bugs: When people hear that bugs bred in captivity are high in phosphorus they may think that wild bugs are the answer. It’s also cheaper to catch bugs around your home or yard to feed to your gecko, but it is dangerous. These bugs are very likely to carry parasites and may even be full of harmful chemicals! It is best to avoid wild bugs and stick with captive-bred bugs that are dusted with calcium.
Hydration Matters Too: Offer a shallow water dish to keep your geckos hydrated. They might not sip from it often, but when they do, it's a sip of health.
Keep an eye on your geckos' condition – if they start resembling mini-bowling balls, it's time to dial back the bugs a bit. And don't stress if they don't always gobble up every bug – appetites can vary. Ready to craft a bug-feeding schedule that'll have your geckos licking their lips?
Feeding Techniques and Ensuring Consumption
It's mealtime – gecko style! Mastering feeding techniques ensures your crested and gargoyle geckos enjoy their bug buffet to the fullest. Let's dig into some tricks and tips to make every feeding session a success.
Direct Delivery: Some geckos are all about hands-on dining. Gently offer bugs using tongs or your fingers. It's a great way to bond and ensure your geckos are getting their fill.
Feeding Dishes: Place bugs in shallow dishes within the enclosure. This gives your geckos a designated dining area, reducing the chance of escape and making cleanup a breeze.
Picky Eaters: If your gecko turns up their nose, don't be disheartened. Instead try these useful tips that can help:
Try offering different bugs or even wiggling them around to pique their interest.
Give wax worms a try. They smell sweet already and wiggle in a way that makes many timid bug eaters give a try.
Dust the bug in gecko diet. This makes it smell like the food that the gecko is used to.
Rip off the head: It is gross, but sometimes opening the bug up so that it has juicy guts coming out can make a big difference in getting a timid eater to give it a try.Offer bugs at lights out. Because crested and gargoyle geckos are nocturnal offering bugs right before you go to bed can make a huge difference in the number of bugs consumed.
Patience is Key: Geckos can be a bit finicky. If they don't gobble up bugs immediately, don't worry. Some geckos prefer a leisurely approach to dining and might indulge later on.
Hygiene Matters: Uneaten bugs can become unappetizing and unsightly. Remove them in the morning to maintain a clean enclosure.
Remember, variety is the spice of life, so switch up feeding techniques now and then. Keep an eye on your geckos' behavior – active and enthusiastic eating is a good sign that they're enjoying their meals. With a dash of patience and a sprinkle of creativity, you'll soon become a feeding maestro, delighting your geckos with every bite!
Observing Health and Adjusting the Strategy
Keeping tabs on your geckos' well-being is like being their personal health detective. By staying vigilant and adapting your bug-feeding strategy, you ensure they're thriving. Here's your detective toolkit:
Check the Basics: Regularly assess their weight, body condition, and activity levels. Healthy geckos are active and alert
Calibrate the Plan: As your geckos grow, their bug appetite might shift. Adjust your feeding schedule accordingly, tailoring it to their changing needs.
Flexibility is Key: If your geckos' preferences change, go with the flow. Adjusting the bug types or feeding techniques can keep them engaged and excited about meals.
Remember, it's a dynamic journey. Your geckos' needs will evolve over time, and being adaptable is your superpower.
What if Bugs Aren't Their Jam? Gecko Alternatives Await!
So, your gecko's not exactly a bug enthusiast, or maybe you're in a no-bug zone. Fret not – there's a plan for that! Skip the dried, dead bug route; they're like the gecko equivalent of a soggy sandwich – not the best choice.
Why, you ask? Well, these dried bugs might sound convenient, but they lack the nutritional punch your gecko craves. The drying process zaps their goodness and leaves them low on the nutrition scale. Plus, they're no hydration heroes either.
Instead, opt for a top-notch gecko diet that's packed with protein. It's like handing your gecko a gourmet meal without the fuss. Consider options like Pangea Growth and Breeder or Repashy Grubs 'N' Fruit – these not only save the day but also ensure your gecko's getting the goodness they deserve.
So, if bugs aren't making the cut, remember, there are still awesome alternatives to keep your gecko thriving and your worries at bay!
With bug-feeding mastery in your corner, you're poised to revolutionize your crested and gargoyle geckos' lives! From bug selection to crafting a balanced feast schedule, you're now their culinary superstar.
Your geckos' happiness is in your hands, whether they're bug buffs or prefer alternative delights. Remember, it's all about nurturing their well-being and appetites.
So here's to many contented, tail-wagging days ahead! Keep those gecko hearts full, and their health flourishing.