Can sugar gliders eat bugs from outside? It's tempting to catch a moth or beetle for your glider, but wild insects can carry pesticides, lawn chemicals, parasites and bacteria, and some species are toxic. Feeder insects raised for pets are a far safer choice. If you do offer anything caught outdoors, the risks usually outweigh the small benefit.
At SunCoast Sugar Gliders we've cared for gliders since 1999. Here's why we recommend skipping backyard bugs and what to offer instead.
Why Outdoor Bugs Are Risky
Pesticides and chemicals
Lawns, gardens, farms and even neighbors' yards are often treated with insecticides, herbicides and fertilizers. A bug that crawled through treated grass, or is dying from poison, can pass those chemicals to a tiny glider. Read about sugar glider pest control safety at home too.
Parasites and bacteria
Wild insects may carry parasites or germs. Some intestinal problems in gliders are linked to contaminated food and water. Your exotics vet can test droppings if you're concerned.
Toxic or harmful species
Some insects are toxic, sting or bite. Fireflies, stink bugs, many caterpillars and others should never be offered. Identifying safe species correctly isn't easy.
Lights and porch bugs
Insects attracted to porch lights might seem harmless, but they come from unknown places and may have been exposed to sprays.
Safer Alternatives
- Feeder insects from a pet store or reputable breeder, such as crickets, dubia roaches and silkworms
- Gut-loaded insects that have eaten nutritious food before feeding. Learn more about gut loading insects for sugar gliders
- Dried insects as a convenient backup
Compare options in our guide to the best insects for sugar gliders.
If Your Glider Ate a Wild Bug
Don't panic. Most single bugs cause no problem. Watch for:
- Vomiting, drooling or pawing at the mouth
- Diarrhea or unusual droppings
- Lethargy or loss of appetite
- Trembling or unsteady movement
If you notice any of these, or you know the bug was exposed to chemicals, call your exotics vet right away.
Keeping Indoor Bugs Away Too
Bugs that wander into your house can still carry chemicals from outside. Remove them from the cage area rather than letting your gliders hunt them.
Building a Balanced Diet
Insects are just one part of a healthy diet. Combine them with fresh produce and a quality staple such as Wholesome Balance chicken & brown rice. See our overview of insects for sugar gliders for more.
Common Mistakes
- Letting gliders hunt porch bugs. Bugs drawn to outdoor lights may carry chemicals or parasites
- Feeding bugs from the yard "just once." You can't tell what a wild bug has been exposed to
- Using feeder insects that weren't stored properly. Dead, dried-out or moldy insects should be thrown out
- Overfeeding insects. They're one part of a balanced diet, not the main meal
What to Watch After a Wild Bug
If your glider ate a wild insect, watch it for the next day or two for:
- Drooling or pawing at the mouth
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Weakness, trembling or wobbling
- Swelling around the face
- Loss of appetite
When to See an Exotics Vet
Call your vet right away if you see any of the signs above, or if you know the bug came from an area treated with pesticides. Bring the bug or a photo of it if you can.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can sugar gliders eat moths?
Moths from outdoors may carry pesticides. Feeder insects are safer.
Can I raise my own insects?
Yes. Many owners breed crickets or roaches, which gives you control over what they eat.
Are dead bugs safe?
No. A dead bug may have died from poison.
Are fireflies safe for sugar gliders?
No. Fireflies are known to be toxic to some small animals and reptiles. Keep gliders away from them, and contact an exotics vet if you think your glider ate one.
Conclusion: Stick With Feeder Insects
Wild bugs are a gamble. Pet-quality feeder insects give your gliders protein and fun without the chemical risk. Shop premium nutrition at SunCoast sugar glider food. SunCoast Sugar Gliders, Since 1999. Orders of $30 or more ship free.