Best Feeder Insects for Australian Reptiles
Choosing the best feeder insect for your reptile can make a big difference in their health, growth, and overall care.
While there are several good options available in Australia, each feeder insect has its own strengths and drawbacks depending on your reptile and setup.
Quick answer: Dubia roaches are often the best all-round feeder insect, but the ideal choice depends on your reptile, experience level, and setup.
Common Feeder Insects in Australia
The most commonly used feeder insects in Australia include:
- Dubia Roaches
- Woodies
- Crickets
- Mealworms
- Superworms
- Black soldier fly larvae
- Silkworms
Each has its place depending on your feeding goals.
For a full breakdown of all feeder types, see: Complete Guide to Feeder Insects in Australia
Dubia Roaches
Dubia roaches are widely considered one of the best feeder insects due to their balance of nutrition, ease of care, and reliability.
Pros
- easy to keep alive
- low smell and low maintenance
- can't climb easily
Cons
- require warmth to stay active
- slower movement (less stimulating for some reptiles)
You can browse sizes here:
For more detail, see: Dubia Roach Care Guide Australia
Crickets
Crickets are one of the most commonly used feeder insects, especially for new reptile owners.
Pros
- strong feeding response
- widely available
Cons
- short lifespan
- smell and noise
- harder to keep alive
Learn more: Feeding Live Crickets Pros and Cons
Crickets are often a starting point, but many keepers move on to easier feeders. However, some reptiles, like geckos, tend to prefer crickets over roaches.
Mealworms & Superworms
Mealworms and superworms are convenient and easy to store.
Pros
- easy to keep alive
- low maintenance
Cons
- lower nutrition
- hard exoskeleton
- should not be used as a staple diet
Best used as part of a varied feeding routine.
Black Soldier Fly Larvae
Black soldier fly larvae are known for their calcium content and ideal calcium:phosphorus ratio.
Pros
- high in calcium
- relatively high protein
- no need for dusting in some cases
Cons
- smaller size
- short-ish shelf life
Often used as a supplement feeder rather than a staple due to their slightly higher cost and short lifespan.
Woodies
Woodies are a good staple feeder, however can be difficult to manage due to their speed and climbing ability.
Pros
- relatively high protein
- easy to keep
Cons
- fast & like to hide
- can climb smooth surfaces
Woodies have been used as staple feeder insects in Australia for years, but many keepers are now moving toward dubia roaches.
Silkworms
Silkworms are a premium feeder insect known for their soft bodies and high moisture content.
Pros
- highly digestible
- great hydration source
Cons
- harder to keep
- more expensive
Best used as a supplement or treat feeder.
Best Feeder Insects by Use Case
Best for Beginners
Dubia roaches are the easiest to manage and most forgiving.
Best for Bearded Dragons
Dubia roaches, crickets, woodies and Black soldier fly larvae are all strong options depending on preference.
Easiest to Keep Alive
Dubia roaches, woodies and mealworms/superworms require the least maintenance.
Best High-Protein Feeder
Dubia roaches and Black soldier fly larvae provide strong protein content.
Common Best Option for Long Term Feeding
Dubia roaches are generally the most reliable long-term feeder.
Is There a Single Best Feeder Insect
There is no single perfect feeder insect for every reptile.
The best approach is to use a combination of feeders to provide a balanced diet.
Variety helps ensure your reptile receives a wider range of nutrients.
The “best” feeder depends on your reptile’s needs and your setup.
Complete Feeder Guide
Want a deeper understanding of all feeder insects and how to use them?
Read the full guide here: Complete Guide to Feeder Insects in Australia
