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Why are Crickets great for Chickens? Crickets are well known as a great reptile food.  They are loaded with protein, which is great for growing reptiles and amphibians.  They are creepy and crawly and jumpy, which is great for stimulating prey-drive in predators.  And they breed quickly, which is great for pets that need to feast on a lot of crickets.   But did you know crickets are a great food supplement for chickens?  Most chicken keepers provide their chickens with the typical chicken feed from their local farm store.  There is nothing wrong with that.  The chicken feed is designed...

Feeding Schedule for Adult Chickens Did you know that a 2011 consumer survey conducted by USFRA (U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance) estimated that 72% of U.S. consumers are not familiar with farming or where their food comes from? By raising chickens, you are entering an exciting new world of understanding how our food is produced. The following article will help you understand how to properly feed your chickens for optimal performance.  Although dietary needs of chickens will change depending upon their age, bear in mind that a varied diet will ensure that they are receiving proper nutrition. The chickens we...

What are Hornworms? The tobacco hornworm (Manduca sexta) (Lepidoptera: Sphingidae) is an economically important insect pest of many solanaceous (nightshade) crops, such as tobacco, tomato, peppers, and potato. As a contrast to its destructive nature as a caterpillar, adult moths are beneficial pollinators. This insect can be distinguished by its posterior red horn and abdominal markings that look like cigarettes. Like Bombyx mori and Drosophila melanogaster, the tobacco hornworm is also used as a model insect in many scientific studies. Life Expectancy This species is holometabolous, meaning that they go through a complete metamorphosis—egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The average...

What are Silkworms? The silkworm (Bombyx mori) (Lepidoptera: Bombycidae) is one of most economically important insect species in human history for its production of silk (sericulture). This moth species was domesticated over 5,000 years ago in Ancient China, with none currently existing in the wild. White silkworms were selectively bred for their white silk, leading to their characteristic color seen today. The silkworm is also used as a model insect in many scientific studies (like Drosophila melanogaster and Manduca sexta). Silkworm Life Expectancy These species are holometabolous, meaning that they go through a complete metamorphosis—egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The...

Crickets Vs Mealworms When it comes to your regular feeder insect, it is very important to ensure that the species you choose will be fulfilling the needs of your leopard gecko, bearded dragon, or other insect-eating pet!  From your human's perspective, all feeder insects look alike.  But for your pet, that is not the case.   In this article, we directly compare crickets and Mealworms by looking at their protein, fat, mineral, and fiber content. Plus, we look at which insect your pet will prefer and how you can incorporate different insects into a more-balanced and engaging diet! Nutritional Profile Experts suggest...