Choosing the right feeder cricket size is one of the simplest ways to make feeding safer and easier for a bearded dragon. Crickets that are too large can be hard to swallow, while crickets that are too small may not hold your dragon's attention for long.
The simple size rule
A good rule of thumb is to choose crickets no larger than the space between your bearded dragon's eyes. This guideline works well for many reptiles because it helps keep feeder insects appropriately sized for the animal's head and mouth.
Baby bearded dragons
Baby bearded dragons usually need very small feeders, often pinhead or extra-small crickets depending on the dragon's size. They tend to eat more frequently than adults, so smaller, easy-to-catch crickets can make feeding sessions smoother.
Juvenile bearded dragons
As a juvenile grows, you can gradually move up in feeder size. Watch how your dragon catches, chews, and swallows. If crickets seem difficult to handle, step back down to a smaller size.
Adult bearded dragons
Adult bearded dragons can usually handle larger feeder insects, but size still matters. Offer appropriately sized crickets and rotate in other feeder options such as superworms when they fit your dragon's age, size, and feeding plan.
Feeding safety tips
- Supervise live feeding sessions.
- Remove uneaten crickets after feeding.
- Keep feeder crickets clean, dry, and well ventilated before use.
- Ask a reptile veterinarian if your dragon has appetite, weight, or digestion concerns.
You can browse our feeder insects for bearded dragons or shop live banded crickets in multiple sizes.