Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I'm pretty sure the answer is yes, least to the first question, but wanted to check...

When superworms develop, as in pupate (? spelling), and turn into another insect, is that insect a largish black beetle type of critter? Do these beetles hurt anything? what should I do with these beetles? My biggest dragon snapped one of them up as soon as he saw it, and given that it wasn't a firefly, no pesticides were used on the beetle, and its been a day or so since he ate it, it clearly didn't harm him any. Just wondering what I should do with the beetles.

thanks

Hey there...

First of all, I'm not a vet, but I will give you an account of my experience with superworms and mealworms. I hesitate to feed my dragon too many superworms simply because of the phosphate/calcium ratio. A vet explained to me that too many phosphates can be harmful to a dragon (and the phosphates in worms outweigh the calcium they provide). However phosphates are good for dragons in small doses so I like to give worms to my guy once in a while as a treat. I wouldn't recommend them as a part of their daily diet. I stick mainly with dusted crickets and collards. This is what works for me, but again I'm not a vet and I can't really give expert advice.

As for the beetles, yeah that's what worms turn into. I wouldn't recommend feeding them to your dragon if you can help it. Mine has never eaten one and I don't think they can be harmful. I've heard of some owners feeding their dragons roaches but I've never had experience with that and I don't plan to! Whenever my worms have turned into beetles, I've thrown them out.