Broccoli Worms

[Ren]

Are these ok or NOT to feed to chams?

Broccoli Worms

Broccoli Worms
Larvae of the Broccoli Worm (better known as the Imported Cabbage Worm) prefer to feed on cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, brussels sprouts, turnips, radishes, kale, lettuce and weeds of the mustard family. They chew irregular holes in the leaves and usually eat their way into broccoli heads from the bottom.

 

[Electric]

sorry I don't know the answer to your question but if they do end up being ok to feed, judging from what they feed on, sounds like they'd be a damn good feeder for our chameleons , why do we never see these for sale on feeder sites??

 

[Ren]

I know, Ive read great calcium factor as well as vitamin A... I have some small enough for the baby and if they are good then i will give her some today...

 

[Brad Ramsey]

Ren I sent you an e-mail but will say this for any others reading.
It is my opinion that the fuzzy little hairs on this particular larvae
could be irritating to a cham (especially a baby) so I wouldn't feed them.

-Brad

 

[Ren]

Thanx Brad.

 

[Ren]

No one else with any theories or insight?

 

[Will Hayward]

Contact Lele, our resident buggologist.

 

[lele]

Hi Ren,

Brad has a minor point with the small hairs for baby chams but they are basically smooth and should not be an issue for adults. The larvae themselves would not harm your juvi - adult cham, however, what they feed on can be an issue if you feed too many of these. Food in the cabbage family can be high in oxalates (binds calcium) and goitrogens (affect thyroid). An occasional juicy treat these would be fine, but not as a summer staple, as tempting as it may be due to their easy picking

I don't think anyone mentioned this and I am sure you have already considered it, but be sure no biocides (pesticide, herbicide or other poisons) have been sprayed on or near these plants or used as a systemic in the soil.

You could try to bring in some young one and try to feed them on mustard greens, which you should be able to get at market (try to get organic or be sure to wash very well) and are very good. You can also try butternut squash, dandelion greens, collard greens and others. Here is a link to nutritional guide. I use it for gutloading feeders as well as feeding my beardie.

Nutrional Chart