Yes, many species of carnivorous and omnivorous lizards eat worms. However, not all worms are equally appealing to lizards. For instance, earthworms have a slimy exterior, which some lizards may avoid unless no other food options are available. On the other hand, lizards often enjoy other worm-like invertebrates such as hornworms, waxworms, and mealworms.
Lizards can consume a variety of worms, including mealworms, earthworms, waxworms, superworms, silkworms, and phoenix worms. However, some of these worms are high in fat and should be fed sparingly to avoid health issues. Additionally, a lizard’s diet depends on its size and species.
Do Lizards Eat Earthworms?
Yes, earthworms are a nutritious option with a balanced nutritional profile. Certain lizard species, such as bearded dragons, Bell’s forest dragons, leopard geckos, and water dragons, can eat earthworms. However, not all lizards consume them. For example, herbivorous lizards like iguanas will not eat worms.
Earthworms are rich in calcium and safe for bearded dragons of all ages. However, due to their low nutritional value (mostly moisture), they should only be fed occasionally, such as once a week. Earthworms can add variety to a bearded dragon’s diet, providing protein and essential nutrients like calcium.
It’s important to avoid feeding your lizard earthworms collected from outdoors, as they may carry diseases or parasites that could harm your pet.
Do Lizards Eat Mealworms?
Yes, mealworms, which are beetle larvae, are a high-protein food source for lizards. Captive and wild lizards often enjoy mealworms, and they can be fed 2-3 times a week. Mealworms are a favorite among various lizards, including:
- Geckos (e.g., leopard geckos and crested geckos)
- Bearded dragons
- Chameleons
- Water dragons
Before feeding mealworms to captive lizards, it’s recommended to coat them with mineral and vitamin supplements, especially calcium. Phosphorus and vitamin D3 are also commonly added to ensure a balanced diet. While mealworms are a good source of nutrition, they should not be the sole food in a lizard’s diet. A variety of insects and worms, such as crickets, waxworms, butterworms, roaches, silkworms, and hornworms, should be included to provide a well-rounded diet.
What Types of Worms Do Lizards Eat in the Wild?
In the wild, lizards eat a variety of insects and worms, including earthworms, mealworms, and waxworms. Waxworms, butterworms, and hornworms are often given as treats to captive lizards. Lizards also consume other insects, but they are particularly fond of worms.
For example, anoles and wall lizards typically eat 2-5 small bugs or two mealworms at a time. Larger lizards, such as agama lizards, may consume up to 20 large crickets or 5-10 medium-sized roaches per feeding. This translates to about 10 superworms or 40 mealworms per meal.
Which Worms Should You Feed Pet Lizards in Captivity?
Captive lizards can eat a variety of worms, with mealworms being a popular choice due to their nutritional value. To ensure your pet lizard’s health, it’s important to dust worms with calcium and vitamin supplements before feeding. Mealworms are particularly beneficial for smaller carnivorous lizards and amphibians, as they help maintain body mass.
Earthworms can also be fed to lizards, provided they are sourced from clean, parasite-free environments. Other worms, such as waxworms, butterworms, and hornworms, can be offered as occasional treats due to their high fat content.
What Do Amphisbaenia Lizards (Worm Lizards) Eat?
Amphisbaenia, also known as worm lizards, are carnivorous and feed on:
- Arthropods (e.g., spiders and centipedes)
- Insects
- Small rodents (occasionally)
- Worms
Despite their name, worm lizards are not named for their diet but for their worm-like appearance, as they are legless. These nocturnal creatures spend most of their lives underground, emerging at night to hunt. They rely on their strong jaws and interlocking teeth to tear apart prey, as they lack venom. Their diet also provides most of their water intake.
Summary
Most omnivorous lizards eat various types of worms, both in the wild and in captivity. If you’re feeding worms to your pet lizard, ensure they receive a balanced diet with other food sources as well. Herbivorous lizards, of course, do not eat worms.
To help lizards digest food efficiently, they must be kept within their ideal temperature range, which varies by species. As ectotherms, lizards rely on external heat sources to maintain body temperature for proper metabolism. By providing the right diet, lighting, heat, and humidity, you can help your pet thrive and live a long, healthy life.
