Grasshopper feeders

[culpepperc]

Hello fellow cham lovers, just wanted to get some info. on grasshoppers as feeders for my 2 panthers. They both seem to love eating them. I can always get their attention with a nice juicy hopper. Are there any negative effects to them eating grasshoppers as a snack or as a staple food source?

 

[sandrachameleon]

I use grasshoppers every summer. I think they are a great addition to the diet. If yours are wild caught, like the ones I use, then of course one has to be aware of possible parasite exposure. if the grasshoppers are large, with spiny hind jumping legs, its possible that they could scratch/hurt the chameleons mouth. If your chameleon is a good "chewer" and your not using them all the time, dont worry about it. if you are using a lot of large grasshoppers, consider removing the hind legs.

As for being a "staple" - I personally dont think having a staple of any kind is the way to go. Instead, variety is my thing. I try not to let any one prey item make up more than 20% of my chameleons diet, and generally use 6-12 different feeders per month.

 

[Texas Panther Man]

Sandra, broke it down very well. I'd just add if you can find katydids in your area. They are also a good feeder and their color is very attractive to chams. Their legs are smaller and their bodies are softer than a hopper also. So its less likely to scratch a cham.