Leopard geckos are strict insectivores — every meal, for their whole life, is live prey. That makes feeder quality and variety more important for this species than almost any other.
What to Feed
Mealworms are the classic leopard gecko staple — easy to portion, easy to digest, and readily eaten. Dubia roaches sized appropriately are an excellent low-fat alternative many geckos take just as readily. Superworms are best offered to adults only, as an occasional higher-fat treat rather than a daily feeder.
Feeding Schedule
- Hatchlings (0–3 months): Small mealworms or dubia daily, 4–6 insects per feeding.
- Juveniles (3–12 months): Every 1–2 days, 6–8 appropriately sized insects.
- Adults (12+ months): Every 2–3 days, 6–10 insects, adjusted to body condition.
Gut-Loading & Dusting
Because leopard geckos eat nothing but insects, gut-loading isn't optional — it's most of their nutrition. Dust with calcium (no D3) at most feedings, and calcium with D3 once a week for geckos without UVB. Details in our gut-loading guide.
A Few Things to Watch For
Match insect width to the space between your gecko's eyes, and remove uneaten insects after 15–20 minutes — mealworms left in the enclosure overnight can nip at a sleeping gecko.