Reptile & Amphibian Forums

or do the need other insects???

Thanks

Hey there,

In the wild HLs are heavily opportunistic, and while they mainly subsist on ants, they appear to appreciate other insects once in a while. I've never seen a HL turn down a mealworm, or waxworm, and even watched them race other lizards to get it.

Another thing to consider would be the type of HL you're asking about. They've done studies on this, and gut contents between species in regards to ant number vary greatly. I believe Regals consistently had about 80% of their diet ant based, while Short Horns are only around 50....so take that into consideration. A Short Horned Lizard would appear to need a more varied diet if captive success is the ultimate goal, which I assume is the case.

I have to say that I appreciate the fact that you didn't ask if HLs could survive without ants.....we've all been through that argument before.....so thanks for the question, and opportunity to talk HLs. Good luck!

-Phil

I assume the ones I have are DHL they were found in the Riverside dessert in Calif. and look like the ones in the photos. They are small, about two to two and a half inches long, they will kill and play with the crickets and millworms but not eat them all that well, not sure if the bugs are to big but if I put the red ants in they pound them down.

If you're not using pinhead crickets (ant sized), then they wont eat them. Try getting pinheads crickets at a pet store and house them in a separate container. Feed the crickets romain lettuce, carrots and lemons wedges...not water is needed. Then introduce about 10-15 pinheads at a time, but only after the lizards have warmed up. That should work.

Roger