Locusts (Schistocerca gregaria): The Complete Feeder Profile

Overview

Locusts (primarily Locusta migratoria and Schistocerca gregaria) are one of the most nutritious and enriching feeder insects. Their active hopping and climbing behaviour provides excellent stimulation for hunting species.

💪

60%

Protein (DM)

🧈

13%

Fat (DM)

🦴

16mg

Calcium/100g

⚖️

1:9.5

Ca:P Ratio

💧

62-67%

Moisture

🐛

Moderate

Chitin

Nutritional Profile

Nutritional Breakdown — Locusts (Locusta migratoria / Schistocerca gregaria)

Protein

60% DM

Excellent

Fat

13% DM

Excellent

Calcium

16mg/100g

Poor

Ca:P Ratio

1:9.5

Poor

Digestibility

Moderate chitin

Moderate

Overall Feeder Rating

7.5/10

Excellent Feeder — Highly Recommended

Key Benefits

Very high protein (60% DM), low fat (13% DM), and exceptional behavioural enrichment value. Their movement triggers strong predatory responses in chameleons, monitors, and other active hunters. Available in multiple sizes. Quiet, relatively clean, and do not bite. One of the best feeders for encouraging natural hunting behaviour.

Suitable Species

ℹ️

Suitability Guide

🟢 = Highly recommended 🔵 = Good choice 🟡 = Occasional use 🔴 = Not recommended

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Storage & Keeping

💡

Storage TipsKeep warm (25-30°C) in a tall, well-ventilated enclosure with branches for climbing. Feed fresh grass, dandelion leaves, and bran. They are short-lived at room temperature — use within 1-2 weeks.

Limitations

⚠️

Things to ConsiderPoor calcium-to-phosphorus ratio (1:9.5) requires heavy supplementation. Moderate chitin in adults — remove hind legs for smaller reptiles to reduce impaction risk. More expensive than crickets. Require warmth (28-35°C) to stay active. Illegal to sell live in some regions (e.g., USA) due to agricultural concerns.

References

Finke, M.D. (2002). “Complete nutrient composition of commercially raised invertebrates used as food for insectivores.” Zoo Biology, 21(3), 269–285.
Oonincx, D.G.A.B. & Dierenfeld, E.S. (2012). “An investigation into the chemical composition of alternative invertebrate prey.” Zoo Biology, 31(1), 40–54.
Wikipedia contributors. “Locusta migratoria / Schistocerca gregaria.” Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Link