Recipe: insect bites

Hedgehogs and tenrecs thrive on insects as their primary source of protein. While live or dried insects are usually offered directly, sometimes it’s fun to prepare them in a special way as a treat. These insect bites are small cookies enriched with insect protein, easy to make, and safe when fed in moderation.

Ingredients (makes 10–12 small bites)

• 2 tablespoons oat flour (or finely ground rolled oats)
• 1 tablespoon mashed sweet potato or pumpkin (cooked, unsalted)
• 1 tablespoon finely ground dried insects (mealworms, crickets, or roaches)
• ½ tablespoon finely chopped whole insects for texture (optional)
• 1 egg white (acts as a binder)
• A splash of water if needed for consistency

Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Heat oven to 160 °C (325 °F).
2. Mix dry ingredients: Combine oat flour and ground insects in a bowl.
3. Add binder: Mix in mashed sweet potato/pumpkin and egg white until a thick dough forms.
4. Shape: Roll into pea-sized balls or flatten into small discs for quicker baking.
5. Bake: Place on a lined baking tray and bake for 10–12 minutes, until firm but not browned.
6. Cool completely: Allow the insect bites to cool fully before serving.

Feeding Guidelines

• Serve as an occasional treat only, not a staple diet.
• One or two bites per animal is sufficient in a single session.
• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
• Always monitor for choking: break into smaller pieces for very young or small individuals.

In Summary

Insect bites are a simple, homemade way to add variety and enrichment to the diets of hedgehogs and tenrecs. With safe, protein-rich ingredients, they provide a fun treat that mirrors the insect-heavy diet these species are adapted to, just remember: moderation is key.