Hunger Strike: The Worms of Desire

[BeardedLion]

My beardie is currently on a hunger strike against dubia roaches and crickets. Before this, he decided that he was too good for greens as well (squash only...). I only know that he is not completely starving himself because he goes wild for superworms, hornworms, and phoenix worms. This is definitely displeasing since I have a huge stock of dubia roaches that are going to out grow his juvenile sized head.

I know supers and horns aren't particularly good for them, but phoenix worms are so expensive for how big they are and how many you have to feed in a sitting. How to get him to eat dubia again...? Are silkworms worth it? I know they are nutritious, but I made an order once, and they died within a day. Does anyone recommend a silkworm seller?

 

[CooperDragon]

It's not unheard of for them to prefer one feeder over another for a while. You can try withholding worms to get him back onto roaches, but that's probably not best for a growing dragon who needs protein. I would continue to offer roaches along with the worms (maybe offer them first every day) but know that the silver lining is that the older roaches will start to breed and this downtime will allow a colony to take hold. Silk worms are good feeders but I'd include them in a balanced diet. I've had good luck ordering from Linda's Gone Buggie.

 

[BeardedLion]

He ate two roaches today, which is such a relief after a 4 day strike. I'll definitely look into that for some silkies, thank you!