Crickets are insects recognized for their distinctive chirping sounds. As true omnivores, their diet includes both plant and animal matter. This diverse feeding habit allows them to thrive in various habitats for their survival and health.
Wild Cricket Diets
In their natural habitats, crickets are opportunistic feeders, consuming various food sources. Their diet primarily consists of plant material, including leaves, grasses, flowers, and seeds. They also consume young plants and fruits.
Beyond fresh vegetation, crickets are scavengers. They feed on decaying organic matter like fallen leaves, dead insects, and carrion. Fungi and algae also become part of their diet when other food sources are scarce. This varied consumption contributes to nutrient recycling by breaking down organic materials.
Feeding Crickets in Captivity
When crickets are kept in captivity, often as feeder insects, providing a suitable diet is important for their well-being and for the animals consuming them. Commercial cricket chow serves as a staple, offering a balanced mix of nutrients. Grains like oats, cornmeal, wheat germ, and rice cereal are common dry food options.
Fresh produce provides nutrients and hydration. Vegetables such as carrots, leafy greens (romaine, mustard greens, kale, collard greens), squash, sweet potatoes, and potatoes are well-received. Fruits like apples, oranges, and bananas are offered. “Gut loading” involves feeding crickets nutritious foods before they are fed to another animal, transferring vitamins and minerals to the consuming pet. A water source is necessary, often provided through water gels, soaked cotton balls, or the moisture in fresh produce, as crickets can drown in open water dishes.
Essential Nutrients and Foods to Avoid
Crickets require balanced nutrients, including protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals, to support their growth, reproduction, and health. They obtain protein from sources like insect larvae or commercial chows, and carbohydrates from plant matter. Minerals like calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, and magnesium, along with B vitamins (including riboflavin and pantothenic acid), contribute to their nutritional profile. Sufficient calcium in their diet is important.
Harmful substances and foods should be avoided. Pesticides are toxic and fatal, and moldy food should be removed promptly to prevent illness. While many fruits and vegetables are beneficial, some human foods, like avocado, rhubarb leaves, and tomato leaves, are detrimental. Some leafy greens like spinach and broccoli may also interfere with calcium absorption. Excessive protein, especially from dog or cat foods, can lead to aggression and is not recommended.