Do Zophobas morio beetles bite?

[werecat]

I've just discovered my first Zophobas morio beetle (normally they don't turn for me). I'd like to try feeding it to my cham, but am worried about it biting. He does not always have the best aim due to being blind in one eye. I just don't want any harm to come to him, but otherwise thought he might enjoy a little treat.

…also, I am a wimp and I'm afraid it will bite ME. I handle biting insects very differently so as to avoid this.

 

[happy]

I had a jackson's when i was 15-16, that choked to death on a beetle, so i stay away...

 

[SSimsswiSS]

If I was really mean, I'd tell you to place the beetle in your hand and press down with other hand. Now release the beetle and place hand in front of nose and breathe deeply.

 

[werecat]

Yes, Steve, I've heard they can spray an odor. Is that reason enough not to feed it off?

 

[Mike Fisher]

If he does go for it, he will likely spit it out. The smell and taste is too much for even the hungriest chameleon. And they don't forget it either.

 

[SSimsswiSS]

You can try feeding, as added variety. Their mouth part can't bite anymore than a crickets. I only stay away from the kissing beetle family's with their piercing proboscis beaks.

 

[werecat]

Thanks for the replies. I will think on it. At least I now know it won't bite him... or me.