Safe and unsafe insects and meat

Insects and small amounts of meat are a cornerstone of the diet for hedgehogs and tenrecs in captivity. These animals are natural insectivores, adapted to digest animal protein rather than seeds or grains. However, not every insect or meat product is safe to feed. Some carry parasites, some are too fatty, and others pose choking or digestive risks. Knowing which foods are safe and which should be avoided, is crucial for keeping your animals healthy.

Safe Insects

The safest insects are those that are captive-bred, gut-loaded, and free from pesticides. These provide high-quality protein and natural foraging opportunities.

• Mealworms: A common staple, but best fed in moderation due to their high fat and chitin content.
• Crickets: Excellent staple insect, high in protein and easy to gut-load with vegetables or calcium powder.
• Roaches: Highly nutritious, with a better calcium–phosphorus balance than mealworms.
• Silkworms and hornworms: Soft-bodied and highly digestible; useful for variety.
• Earthworms: Good natural choice if collected from pesticide-free, chemical-free soil or purchased from reputable suppliers.

Unsafe or Questionable Insects

Some insects should never be fed, or only under strict conditions.

• Wild-caught insects: Risk of pesticides, parasites, and pathogens.
• Fireflies / lightning bugs: Extremely toxic to hedgehogs, even in small amounts.
• Beetles with hard shells: Difficult to digest; can cause intestinal blockages.
• Large superworms: If fed live and unsupervised, they may bite. Cut off heads or offer in small pieces.
• Centipedes, spiders, ants: Dangerous or toxic; never feed.

Safe Meats

Meat should be used as an occasional supplement rather than a daily staple. Lean, cooked meats are best.

• Chicken or turkey (cooked, skinless, boneless): Good source of lean protein.
• Beef (lean, cooked): Can be used in small amounts.
• Egg (boiled or scrambled, unsalted): Nutritious, but rich; best as an occasional treat.
• Fish (plain, cooked white fish): Sometimes accepted, though not all individuals like it.

Unsafe Meats

• Processed meats (ham, bacon, sausages): Too salty, fatty, and often contain preservatives.
• Raw meat or fish: Carries high risk of bacterial infection or parasites.
• Fatty cuts (skin, fat trimmings): Lead to obesity and liver issues.
• Seasoned or spiced foods: Salt, garlic, onion, and spices are toxic to small mammals.

Supplements with Animal Protein

Because insects are naturally high in phosphorus and low in calcium, all live insects should be gut-loaded (fed nutritious foods before being offered) and/or dusted with calcium powder. This helps balance the calcium–phosphorus ratio and prevents metabolic bone disease.

In Summary

For both hedgehogs and tenrecs, insects are the most natural and healthiest protein source, as long as they are captive-bred and safe. Crickets, roaches, silkworms, and earthworms are excellent staples, while mealworms and fatty larvae should be treats. Lean cooked poultry or egg can be used sparingly for variety. Avoid wild-caught insects, toxic species like fireflies, and all processed or raw meats. A careful balance of safe insects and occasional lean meats supports both health and natural behaviour.