Why Your Crickets Keep Dying | Fix Common Problems Fast
If your crickets keep dying quickly, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common problems reptile owners face when using live feeders.
The good news is that most cricket deaths come down to a few fixable issues. Once you understand what’s going wrong, you can dramatically improve survival rates.
Quick answer: Crickets usually die from poor ventilation, moisture issues, overcrowding, or incorrect temperature. Though there is speculation of a virus that also affects cricket survival.
Is there a cricket 'Virus'?
There is speculation of a cricket 'virus' that can get into some breeding facilities here in Australia. As far as we're aware this is unconfirmed but common reports say that the crickets are fine until stressed, then once stressed (like during shipping) they can roll over and die.
We personally have experienced this with crickets we've purchased for our own animals. We also know of breeding facilities that have had to completely shut down and restart due to being exposed.
There is no risk posed to your reptiles, just wasted money on feeders you can't use.
If your crickets have this, unfortunately theres only so much you can do. If your setup is perfect and you are still having large numbers of cricket die, potentially try a different supplier.
1. Poor Ventilation
Crickets require constant airflow. Without proper ventilation, ammonia builds up quickly and can wipe out an entire colony.
- use containers with mesh lids or drilled holes
- avoid sealed tubs
- keep air moving where possible
Lack of airflow is one of the fastest ways to lose crickets.
2. Too Much Moisture
Crickets are extremely sensitive to moisture. Excess humidity encourages bacteria, mould, and rapid die-offs.
- never use open water dishes
- use dry hydration methods (like water crystals)
- remove damp food quickly
The issue isn't necessarily moisture itself, but a combination with lack of air flow causing damp/humid conditions. Crickets, especially smaller sizes, can dehydrate quickly leading to die-off. So it's vital to provide a moisture source, it just has to be paired with adequate ventilation.
3. Overcrowding
Too many crickets in a small space leads to stress, competition, and rapid die-off.
- provide plenty of egg cartons for surface area
- avoid putting too many crickets in one container
Overcrowding also increases heat and waste buildup, which will raise the tubs humidity if ventilation isn't good enough.
More space equals healthier crickets.
4. Incorrect Temperature
Crickets are very sensitive to temperature changes.
- too cold = sluggish and die slowly
- too hot = dehydration and rapid death
Ideal temperature is generally between 24°C and 30°C.
For more detail, see: Best Temperature for Live Crickets
Stable temperature is key to longevity.
5. Poor Diet
Crickets need proper nutrition to stay alive and healthy.
- use dry gut-load feeds
- avoid feeding only scraps
- remove spoiled food quickly
Poor nutrition weakens crickets and shortens lifespan.
Healthy crickets = healthier reptiles.
6. Ammonia Build-Up
Cricket waste produces ammonia, which is toxic in enclosed spaces.
- clean containers regularly
- replace dirty egg cartons
Strong smell is a sign ammonia levels are already too high.
Clean setups significantly improve survival.
7. Natural Die-Off
Even with perfect care, crickets naturally have short lifespans.
Depending on age and conditions, many will only live a few weeks.
If your crickets are dying slowly over time, this may be normal.
Rapid die-offs, however, usually indicate a problem.
How to Improve Cricket Survival
- use a well-ventilated container
- keep them dry but still provide a moisture source
- avoid overcrowding
- maintain stable temperature
- clean regularly
For full setup guidance, see: How to Care For Live Crickets
Small improvements can dramatically increase survival rates.
An Easier Alternative: Wood Roaches (Woodies)
If you’re constantly dealing with cricket die-offs, many reptile owners switch to woodies for a more stable feeder.
Woodies:
- live significantly longer
- are easier to care for
- require less maintenance
You can browse available sizes here:
Compare the two here: Woodies vs Crickets Which Is Better
Many keepers switch simply for reliability.
Complete Feeder Guide
Understanding feeder insects helps you avoid common issues and improve reptile care.
Learn more here: Complete Guide to Feeder Insects in Australia