Feeder Insects from Pet-stores?

[birdtoy]

(I wasn't sure where to post this, please let me know if this is in the wrong location!!)

Is it safe to buy feeder insects like crickets from pet stores? Are there any risks, if so, what are they? I only plan to have one gecko, so I don't think I need to order online just yet but I'm not sure if the crickets from pet-stores are bad.

Do any of you have experience? Any tips for deciding which store to buy from?

 

[GeckoLeen]

The Petsmart in my area has good, healthy crickets. The other insects they carry, not so much. And I find they are rather expensive when you have to keep buying them. I found dubia roaches to be easier to keep than crickets, so I bought a small batch of those from Josh's Frogs, and that lasts 2-3 months before a re-order.

 

[birdtoy]

Dubias are actually banned where I live, unfortunately! I use unfortunately lightly because I kind of hate roaches. I'd tolerate them for a good lizard meal but if crickets are gonna be easier, I won't complain lol. Thanks!

 

[GeckoLeen]

Well, crickets are a lot stinkier, louder, and messier...but, to each his own. Roaches are clean, quiet, don't fly, and don't smell.

An alternative to dubias are discoid roaches, which ARE legal in your state, and pretty much the same as dubias, but again, your preference. All are good for your gecko.

 

[Elizabeth Freer]

Here are some Cricket Care Guidelines that may be helpful. Scale them down to the amount you buy. Still provide a large cricket container, a good dry diet 24/7, and daily moisture as suggested.

For 112 click: Updated Cricket Care Guidelines II -- July 2018 update