Are Dubia Roaches Dangerous for Your Gecko?

If you’ve ever hesitated before dropping a Dubia roach into your gecko’s enclosure, you’re not alone. Some gecko parents worry — do Dubia roaches bite? Could they harm my pet? The last thing you want is to put your gecko at risk!

Do Dubia Roaches Bite? The Truth Revealed

Short Answer: No, They Don’t Bite

Dubia roaches do not bite humans, geckos, or other reptiles. Unlike crickets, which have strong mandibles and a reputation for nibbling on sleeping reptiles, Dubia roaches are non-aggressive and rely on scavenging for food rather than attacking live prey.

But Can They Nibble?

While they don’t bite in the traditional sense, Dubia roaches may use their mouthparts to explore surfaces. This can feel like a “nibble” on human skin, but it’s completely harmless. They’re simply testing their surroundings, not trying to bite.

If you’re concerned about your gecko, here’s the good news: Dubia roaches are one of the safest feeder insects available!

Why Dubia Roaches Are Safer Than Other Feeders

Many feeder insects can pose risks to reptiles. Here’s why Dubia roaches are the better choice:

• No biting behavior – Unlike crickets, they won’t harm your gecko.
• High nutrition value – Packed with protein and low in fat, they promote healthy growth.
• No escape artists – Dubia roaches don’t jump or fly, making them easy to manage.
• Long lifespan – Unlike crickets that die quickly, Dubia roaches last much longer.

Pro Tip: To keep your Dubia roaches contained and easy to access, use the Triple Dish or the Dubia Bowl — perfect for feeding without mess!

How to Prevent Dubia Roaches from Hiding in Your Gecko’s Tank

While Dubia roaches won’t bite, they can burrow and hide, making it harder for your gecko to find them. Here’s how to make sure they’re always accessible:

1. Use a Feeder Dish

A feeder dish like the Triple Dish to keep roaches in one place, preventing them from disappearing under the substrate.

2. Avoid Loose Substrate

If you’re using sand or any substrates, roaches may dig down and go unnoticed. A Premium Reptile Liner provides a smooth, escape-proof surface.

3. Feed One at a Time

Instead of dumping multiple roaches into the tank, offer them one at a time with feeding tongs.

Best Practices for Feeding Dubia Roaches to Your Gecko

To maximize nutrition and safety, follow these simple feeding tips:

Gut-Load Before Feeding

What your Dubia roaches eat affects your gecko’s nutrition. Feed them fresh vegetables, high-quality roach chow, and calcium supplements before offering them to your reptile.

Make gut-loading easier with the Triple Dish or the Dubia Bowl —designed to keep fresh produce separate from dry food!

Dust with Calcium & Vitamins

Always dust Dubia roaches with calcium powder to prevent metabolic bone disease (MBD).

Monitor Your Gecko’s Appetite

If your gecko isn’t eating, check their environment. Are temperatures ideal? Is the enclosure setup correct? 

Are Dubia Roaches Safe for Your Gecko?

Absolutely! Dubia roaches are one of the best and safest feeder insects you can offer. They don’t bite, don’t carry parasites like crickets, and provide excellent nutrition.

Have you had success feeding Dubia roaches to your gecko? Let us know in the comments below!

And if you want to make feeding even easier, check out the Triple Dish or the Dubia Bowl — designed to keep feeder insects contained, fresh, and accessible!