Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Do you guys think it is okay not to ever feed dragons crickets but switch all over to roaches? I breed dubias for adults and large sub-adults, and blatta lateralis for babies, and small dragons. They are much better for dragons than crickets, but should they still get crickets? They also have a better meat to shell ratio. After a while of just feeding off roaches to my dragons, I will let everyone know how the health is with my dragons, and if they are doing better than with crickets or not. Also another good thing I have heard about the Blatta Lateralis Roaches is that since they are so small as nymphs, you can feed them to babies and they also can't nip at dragons in the night like the crickets can, so you don't HAVE to take them out while your dragons sleep if you can't or dont have the time. So let me know what you guys think.
-----
Darien Drollinger
www.djsdragonranch.com

Well I know you've been posting for a long time so I don't think I'm nearly as experienced as you but I don't see why not. The Dachiu's told me they feed mostly roaches and spikes as well as a few other feeders w/ there greens and veggies so why not? If they are as nutritious and high in protein/less chitin I'd say go for it. I just placed my order for Lobsters so that's what I am doing....good luck
-----
kill 'em with kindness

I think you should get the Dubias instead of the lobsters unless if you want climbers of course. Is your dragon a baby or adult? The lateralis are small so they are good for babies.
-----
Darien Drollinger
www.djsdragonranch.com

Bearded dragons don't require crickets in their diets, they can do fine without them. However I don't recommend feeding a single insect food all their lives. Just like a variety of greens is best for your dragon, offering a variety of insects is good to. You can still use the roaches as your primary insect food, but add in some silkworms, butterworms, hornworms, superworms etc for variety. Of course don't feed large hornworms or superworms for babies. A few wax worms now and again is good too but not often as they are high in fat.
-----
PHLdyPayne

I just want to substitute roaches for crickets but will feed worms etc. too.
-----
Darien Drollinger
www.djsdragonranch.com

Yea I did a lil research on the Blatta's and I think I am going to go with those. I left a message for Jason at FIREBALLDRAGONZ to see if he'd switch my order. He's really good to talk to. Great prices too!
-----
kill 'em with kindness

there is nothing wrong with lobster roaches. only difference is they climb, but its still easy to prevent then to get out.
-----
Beach Beardies

2.2. bearded dragons
1.1. Sugar Gliders
0.2. Felines *queen athena and missy*