Direct answer: Leopard geckos thrive on a varied diet that includes live insects and occasional gel diets to supplement hydration and nutrients. This guide highlights five proven options, with clear guidance on who they’re best for and why they were chosen. Ideal buyers include new leopard gecko owners seeking reliable feeders, keepers needing shelf-stable options for travel or post-purchase, and hobbyists who want to diversify feed to support growth and overall health. The selections below cover small and medium live feeders plus convenient gel diets to complement live feeding. A quick comparison table is provided to help you decide at a glance.
| Product | Best For | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Dubia Farms 100 Extra Small | Leopard geckos starting on small prey | Live feeders |
| Dubia Roaches 24 Count Medium Hornworms | Reptiles needing hydration and variety | Live feeders |
| Oregon Silkworms Premium Hornworms | Nutrient-rich, digestible treats | Live feeders |
| Predator Foods Bulk Live Mealworms | Bulk staple feeder for varied diet | Live feeders |
| Gargeer Leopard Gecko Gel Diet | Gel-based feeding or hydration boost | Gel diet |
Dubia Farms 100 Extra Small Live Dubia Roaches
The product provides 100 count of extra small Dubia roaches (3/8″ and below). Best for hatchling or juvenile leopard geckos that need tiny prey to reduce choking risk and support steady growth. The roaches are listed as live feeder insects, commonly used by reptile keepers for consistent protein and essential nutrients. Best for owners who prefer a steady, regular live food source and want to minimize waste through careful packaging. A caution: local sales restrictions apply in some areas (no sales to Florida, Hawaii or Puerto Rico). Avoid if your habitat requires larger prey or if you need a mixed feeder plan in one package.
Dubia Roaches 24 Count Medium Hornworms
These live hornworms provide a hydrating, nutritious alternative to crickets or mealworms. They are ideal for mid-size leopard geckos, bearded dragons, and other reptiles needing higher hydration and soft-bodied prey. The high water content supports hydration and can be a visually appealing option due to their bright coloration. Best for geckos that benefit from occasional hydration boosts and variety in texture. Caution: ensure proper housing and temperature during shipping to maintain vitality.
Oregon Silkworms Premium Hornworm Habitat
Hornworms are a nutrient-rich option offering high protein and calcium. They’re soft-bodied, making them easy to digest and less likely to cause impaction when fed in moderation. This option is a good choice for leopard geckos that require a digestible, growth-supporting treat or as a supplemental live feeder alongside crickets or roaches. Best for owners seeking a reliable source of nutrient-dense feeders. Limitation: hornworms can be more expensive and may require careful storage to extend freshness.
Predator Foods Bulk Live Mealworms (500 Count)
Mealworms are a staple feeder for many reptile diets, including leopard geckos. This bulk option aims to supply a longer-lasting supply that can be refrigerated for weeks, provided proper handling. Best for keepers who want a dependable bulk feeder for regular meals and variety when paired with other feeders. A practical note: live delivery can be affected by extreme temperatures; plan accordingly and monitor for any temperature-related issues during shipping.
Gargeer Leopard Gecko Gel Diet
This complete gel diet is designed for geckos that may benefit from a non-live feeding option or for hydration support between live meals. It is manufactured as a gel to reduce mess and odor, with an emphasis on being easily portioned and digestible. Best for geckos that enjoy variety or when reshaping portions for picky eaters. Potential limitation: gel diets should complement live feeding rather than replace it entirely to ensure balanced nutrition.
Buying Guide
What should I feed my leopard gecko?
Most leopard geckos thrive on a mix of live insects (small to medium crickets, roaches, and hornworms) and occasional gel diets or moisture-rich feeders to support hydration and nutrition. A varied diet helps prevent picky eating and supports healthy growth. Always tailor prey size to the gecko’s age and jaw capacity.
Live food vs gel diet: which is better?
Live insects support hunting behavior and natural feeding instincts, while gels provide hydration and a controlled nutrient mix. Use live feeders for daily meals and introduce gel diets as a supplement or during periods when live feeding is impractical. Combine several options to maintain interest and balanced nutrition.
How to choose prey size and frequency?
Hatchlings require very small prey (under 1/4″ to 3/8″), juvenile geckos can handle 1/2″ prey, and adults may manage larger prey up to 5/8″ depending on the animal. Feed 2–3 times per week, adjusting based on appetite, activity level, and waste. Always provide fresh water in a shallow dish.
Storage and handling tips
Store live feeders in appropriate containers with ventilation and temperature control to maintain vitality. Refrigerate when possible to prolong freshness, but avoid freezing. Gel diets should be kept sealed and used per instructions to prevent spoilage. Maintain clean enclosure conditions to reduce the risk of contamination or disease.
Safety considerations
Introduce new feeders gradually to monitor digestion and avoid impaction from large prey. Remove uneaten live insects promptly to prevent overfeeding and mold growth. If your gecko shows signs of distress, lethargy, or abnormal feces after a feeding, consult a reptile veterinarian.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best first food for a hatchling leopard gecko?A combination of very small live insects (like 1/8″ to 1/4″) and gentle introductions to hydrating feeders works well.
- Can leopard geckos eat hornworms regularly?Yes, as part of a varied diet; monitor moisture intake and avoid overfeeding.
- How should I store live feeders?Keep in clean containers, ventilated, and refrigerated when recommended; avoid extreme temperatures.
- Should I feed multiple prey types in the same day?A varied approach across days is beneficial, but avoid overwhelming the gecko with too many different prey at once.
- Is it safe to order live feeders online?Yes, but check local restrictions and shipping conditions to ensure live arrival and vitality.