What Do Leopard Geckos Eat? Complete Diet & Feeding Guide

Understanding what leopard geckos eat is fundamental to keeping them healthy. As strict insectivores, leopard geckos require a diet of live insects to thrive. But not all insects are created equal, and proper supplementation is critical to prevent nutritional deficiencies. This guide covers everything you need to know about feeding your leopard gecko.

infoQuick Answer

Leopard geckos eat live insects including dubia roaches, crickets, mealworms, and black soldier fly larvae. Feed juveniles daily and adults every 2-3 days. Always dust insects with calcium powder and gut-load feeders 24-48 hours before feeding.

Leopard Gecko Diet Overview

Leopard geckos are obligate insectivores, meaning they must eat insects to survive. They cannot digest plant matter and should never be offered fruits, vegetables, or commercial gecko diets designed for frugivorous species. In the wild, they hunt a variety of insects and invertebrates, and replicating this variety in captivity promotes optimal health.

Best Feeder Insects for Leopard Geckos

Primary Feeders (Staple Diet)

These insects can form the foundation of your gecko's diet and be fed regularly:

check_circleDubia Roaches: Best overall choice. High protein, low fat, easy to digest, no odor, and easy to gut-load. The gold standard for leopard gecko nutrition.
check_circleCrickets: Widely available and nutritious. More active which stimulates hunting behavior. Can be noisy and smelly if not maintained properly.
check_circleBlack Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL/Calciworms): Naturally high in calcium, reducing supplementation needs. Excellent for variety.
check_circleSilkworms: High protein, soft-bodied, and readily accepted. Excellent but can be harder to source.

Occasional Feeders (Treats)

These insects should be fed sparingly due to higher fat content or other considerations:

check_circleMealworms: Higher in fat and chitin. Good as treats, not as staple. Easy to keep.
check_circleSuperworms: Large, fatty, and have harder exoskeletons. For adult geckos only, as occasional treats.
check_circleWaxworms: Very high fat content. Use sparingly as treats or for underweight geckos.
check_circleHornworms: Hydrating and nutritious but grow large quickly. Feed small sizes as occasional treats.

warningInsects to Avoid

Never feed wild-caught insects (may contain pesticides or parasites), fireflies (toxic), or any insects larger than the space between your gecko's eyes.

Feeding Schedule by Age

Feeding frequency depends on your gecko's age. Younger geckos need more frequent feeding to support rapid growth, while adults need less frequent meals to prevent obesity.

check_circleHatchlings (0-2 months): Feed daily, 5-7 small insects per feeding
check_circleJuveniles (2-6 months): Feed daily, 5-8 appropriately-sized insects
check_circleSub-adults (6-12 months): Feed every other day, 5-7 insects
check_circleAdults (12+ months): Feed every 2-3 days, 5-7 insects per feeding
check_circleSeniors (15+ years): May eat less frequently, adjust based on body condition

Gut-Loading: The Secret to Nutrition

Gut-loading means feeding nutritious foods to feeder insects 24-48 hours before offering them to your gecko. The nutrients in the insect's gut transfer to your gecko. Without gut-loading, feeder insects are nutritionally incomplete.

Best Gut-Load Foods

check_circleDark leafy greens: Collard greens, mustard greens, dandelion greens
check_circleVegetables: Carrots, squash, sweet potato
check_circleCommercial gut-loads: Repashy Bug Burger, Mazuri High Calcium Gut Load
check_circleFruits (sparingly): Apple, mango, papaya

Calcium and Vitamin Supplementation

Supplementation prevents metabolic bone disease (MBD) and other deficiencies. Even with gut-loading, captive diets lack sufficient calcium and vitamins without supplementation.

Supplementation Schedule

check_circleCalcium with D3: Every feeding if no UVB lighting
check_circleCalcium without D3: Every feeding if using UVB lighting
check_circleMultivitamin: Once or twice per week
check_circleLeave a small dish of plain calcium in the enclosure for self-regulation

lightbulbDusting Method

Place a few insects in a plastic bag or container with supplement powder. Shake gently to coat, then immediately offer to your gecko. Do not over-dust; a light coating is sufficient.

Foods Leopard Geckos Should Never Eat

check_circleFruits and vegetables: They cannot digest plant matter
check_circleCommercial crested gecko diet: Made for frugivorous species
check_circleWild-caught insects: Risk of pesticides and parasites
check_circleFireflies/lightning bugs: Toxic and potentially fatal
check_circleCentipedes or spiders: Can bite back and may be toxic
check_circleDead insects: Can cause bacterial infection

Frequently Asked Questions

Can leopard geckos eat fruit?expand_more

No. Leopard geckos are obligate insectivores and cannot digest plant matter including fruits. Their digestive system is designed only for insects. Feeding fruit can cause digestive issues.

How do I know if my gecko is eating enough?expand_more

A healthy gecko maintains a plump tail (where they store fat), has good body condition without visible ribs, and maintains steady weight. Weigh monthly to track trends.

Why is my leopard gecko not eating?expand_more

Common causes include incorrect temperatures (check basking spot), stress from new environment, shedding, brumation in winter, or illness. If temperatures are correct and refusal persists beyond 2 weeks, consult a vet.

Can I feed my gecko only mealworms?expand_more

While geckos can survive on mealworms alone, it is not ideal. Mealworms are high in fat and chitin compared to other feeders. Variety ensures better nutrition and prevents picky eating.

Feeding for a Healthy Life

A proper diet is one of the most important aspects of leopard gecko care. By offering varied, gut-loaded insects with appropriate supplementation, you provide the foundation for a long, healthy life. Pay attention to your gecko's body condition, adjust feeding amounts as needed, and never hesitate to consult a reptile veterinarian if you have concerns about nutrition or eating habits.