How to Raise Cockroaches

Cockroaches, in particular the Dubia cockroach (Blaptica dubia), make an excellent live food for many species of reptiles, including popular pets such as bearded dragons. Buying roaches for your animals on a regular basis can become quite expensive. Raising cockroaches at home, however, provides you with a continuous supply of cheap and tasty snacks for your reptiles. The Dubia cockroach is particularly suitable because it has a relatively soft exoskeleton and is not particularly good at escaping. As with other species of roach, it is hardy and doesn't require much in the way of care.

Things You'll Need

  • Fish tank
  • Heat mat
  • Empty egg boxes
  • Cotton balls or water gel
  • Saucers
  • Cat or dog kibble
  • Fresh produce
  • Cardboard or plastic box
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Instructions

    • 1

      Position the tank in a warm room. The temperature should be at least 70 degrees Fahrenheit and preferably 85 to 95 degrees. This is a tropical species. Supply extra heat with a reptile heat mat if necessary.

    • 2

      Tear empty egg boxes in half and stack loosely in the tank. These provide hiding and perching places for the roaches.

    • 3

      Soak a couple of cotton balls in water; squeeze slightly to remove excess water and place in a saucer. Roaches need some drinking water but may drown in a water dish. Alternatively, use a water gel.

    • 4

      Introduce a few male and female roaches. The males have wings and the females do not. It is a good idea to buy two small batches of roaches, from different suppliers, to avoid any possible problems from inbreeding.

    • 5

      Feed the roaches on a variety of foods. Pet kibble is a good basis. Supplement with fruit, vegetables, cereal or any other unprocessed foods you have on hand. Dubia cockroaches are unfussy omnivores and eat practically anything. Remove uneaten fresh produce before it goes moldy.

    • 6

      Replace the cotton balls daily to prevent bacteria buildup.

    • 7

      Clean the tank every few months. Transfer the roaches to a box, picking off those clinging to the egg boxes. Tip all the dust and debris at the bottom of the tank into a refuse sack along with the boxes. Replace the egg boxes. You don't really need to wipe the cage, but if you decide to, use hot water and dishwashing liquid. Rinse and dry thoroughly.