The best insects for sugar gliders are lean, gut-loaded feeder insects from a reputable supplier, such as crickets, dubia roaches and silkworms, with fattier insects like mealworms and waxworms offered more sparingly. Insects provide protein and enrichment, but they vary a lot in fat content and calcium, so variety and moderation matter.
At SunCoast Sugar Gliders we've studied glider nutrition since 1999. Here's how popular feeder insects compare and how to choose them.
Why Insects Matter
In the wild, gliders eat insects along with sap, gum and nectar. In captivity, insects add protein, variety and natural foraging behavior. Learn the basics in our guide to insects for sugar gliders.
Feeder Insect Comparison
| Insect | General profile | How often |
|---|---|---|
| Crickets | Lean protein, active prey | Regular choice |
| Dubia roaches | Meaty, lean, easy to keep | Regular choice |
| Silkworms | Soft-bodied, lean | Regular choice |
| Mealworms | Higher fat, harder shell | Occasional |
| Superworms | Higher fat, larger | Occasional |
| Waxworms | Very high fat | Rare treat |
Most feeder insects contain much more phosphorus than calcium. That's why gut loading and a balanced diet matter. Read about the sugar glider calcium to phosphorus ratio.
How to Choose the Best Insects
Buy from reputable suppliers
Choose insects raised as feeders by pet stores or breeders. Avoid wild-caught bugs, which can carry pesticides and parasites. See can sugar gliders eat bugs from outside.
Gut load before feeding
Feed insects nutritious foods for a day or two before offering them to your gliders. This improves what your gliders receive. Learn how in our guide to gut loading insects for sugar gliders.
Choose the right size
Pick insects small enough for your gliders to handle easily.
Live or dried?
Many gliders enjoy chasing live insects, which adds enrichment. Dried insects can be convenient, but some gliders are less interested.
Feeding Insects Safely
- Remove uneaten live insects before bedtime so they don't hide in the cage or bother sleeping gliders.
- Store feeders properly. Keep crickets and roaches in a clean, ventilated container with food and a moisture source.
- Watch for fat-related weight gain. If your glider is getting round, cut back on worms and talk to your vet.
- Introduce new insects slowly and watch droppings for changes.
- Rotate species so your gliders get variety and don't become fixated on one fatty favorite.
Insects and Treats in a Balanced Diet
Insects should be one part of a varied diet that includes a quality staple and fresh produce. A staple such as Wholesome Balance chicken & brown rice provides a consistent base, with insects and fruit adding variety. Talk with your exotics vet about the right balance for your gliders.
Common Mistakes With Feeder Insects
- Catching insects outdoors. Wild bugs may carry pesticides or parasites
- Skipping gut loading. Insects are only as nutritious as what they've eaten
- Feeding insects that are too large. Choose sizes your glider can handle easily
- Leaving live insects loose in the cage. Uneaten crickets can bother sleeping gliders
- Storing insects poorly. Overcrowded, dirty containers lead to die-offs and odor
A Simple Insect Routine
- Buy from a reputable supplier
- Keep insects in a clean, ventilated container with food and a moisture source
- Gut load them before feeding
- Offer insects in a dish or by hand during evening feeding
- Remove any that aren't eaten
- Clean the insect container regularly
When to See an Exotics Vet
If your glider has diarrhea, vomiting or stops eating after a new insect, stop feeding it and contact an exotics vet. Bring the insect type and supplier information with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the healthiest insect for sugar gliders?
Lean, gut-loaded insects such as crickets, dubia roaches and silkworms are popular choices.
Can sugar gliders eat mealworms?
Yes, but they're higher in fat, so offer them occasionally.
Are waxworms bad for sugar gliders?
Not dangerous in small amounts, but they're very fatty and best as a rare treat.
Conclusion: Lean, Varied and Gut-Loaded
Choose lean feeder insects, gut load them, and keep fatty worms as occasional treats. Pair them with premium nutrition from SunCoast sugar glider food. SunCoast Sugar Gliders, Since 1999. Orders of $30 or more ship free.