has a number of antimicrobial properties and can
assist in fighting infections in the gut, including the
coccidiosis organism. BSFL should form an impor-
tant component of any insect-eating reptile or
amphibian’s diet and can be fed to animals of any
age.
Domestic House Flies.
These can be a suitable food source for small
species of amphibians. Although not always avail-
able from commercial suppliers, flies can be easily
caught or propagated by keepers wanting to add
some variety into their animals’ diet.
Snails.
The common Garden Snail is a favourite amongst
many skink species, most notably those in the
genus Tiliqua. Snails provide a great source of
protein in any skink’s diet, however, securing a
regular supply can be difficult. Some specialty
reptile stores will sell commercially-bred live or
frozen Garden Snails and this is definitely the safest
option. If you collect snails from your garden it is
important to make sure that they come from an area
where no snail baits or chemicals have been used.
Earthworms and Bloodworms.
Earthworms contain plenty of natural moisture and
can be used as a supplement or treat for some
species of lizards, frogs and turtles. They do not
provide much nutrition other than some protein, so
should not be used as a staple food item. Aquatic
Bloodworms or Blackworms can also make a good
live treat food for turtles.
Termites.
Although not commonly used as a live insect food
source, termites should certainly be considered by
many more keepers. Termites provide a rich source
of protein, zinc and iron, and are high in beneficial
fats, making them ideal for very small dragons,
geckos and frogs. Termites can be harvested from
the bush by cutting away a small portion of a mound
(without damaging the nest) and storing this in a
plastic garbage bin or container. Pieces of the
mound can then be placed in a dish inside the
reptile’s enclosure; many species will readily pick off
the termites.
Fish/Yabbies/Molluscs.
Live fish, yabbies and molluscs should be included
in the diet of any aquatic or semi-aquatic reptile,
including turtles and some species of monitors.
Locusts.
Whilst not currently commercially available in
Australia, locusts are frequently used as a feeder
insect in many overseas collections. Locusts can be
collected, gut loaded and fed to larger species of
lizards as a supplement or treat.
Kellyville
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