Live feeders don't have to be a headache. Red Runners offer a natural feeding rhythm that mimics the wild, giving reptiles the hunt and chase they crave without the mess or smell. Learn more at https://micedirect.com/products/red-runner-1-4-inch-1
Are red runners the best feeder roach? Here's what keepers get right—and where things go wrong.
Red runner roaches are changing how reptile keepers think about live feeders. These insects are fast, clean, and just right for feeding reptiles. They're non-burrowing, flightless, and easy to handle. If your goal is consistent nutrition with minimal hassle, red runners deliver and then some.
When you match the feeder to the reptile—by size, schedule, and behavior—you get healthier pets and stress-free feeding. When you don’t, problems show up fast.
What keepers get right: size matters more than most people think. As a rule of thumb, never feed an insect wider than the space between your reptile's eyes. For hatchlings and tiny insectivores, quarter-inch red runners are the sweet spot—small enough to swallow easily, active enough to trigger the hunting response. Step up feeder size gradually as your animal grows, and keep that eye-width guideline in mind to avoid impaction and digestive issues.
Where things go wrong: feeding too big, too soon, or too much at once. Juvenile insectivores often thrive on daily feedings, while adults may do better with three to four sessions per week. Offer several red runners per session rather than one oversized insect; multiple small prey items are easier to digest and more enriching to hunt. Watch body condition—not just appetite—and adjust volume accordingly. A curious, alert feeder with good muscle tone and a visible waist is right where you want them.
What keepers get right: choosing red runners because they behave like prey should. They move quickly without burrowing into substrate or flying into fixtures. That keeps them visible and catchable, reducing leftover insects that stress reptiles or foul the enclosure. They're also quiet and clean, making them a better experience than chirping crickets or messy mealworms.
Where things go wrong: neglecting feeder care. Keep your feeders well so they can keep your pets well. House red runners in a smooth-sided bin with plenty of ventilation. Use egg flats for surface area and easy access. Feed a simple, clean diet—slices of carrot, apple, or raw potato for energy and moisture—with water crystals or a damp paper towel for safe hydration. Remove uneaten produce before it spoils. A well-fed feeder is a more nutritious feeder; gutload for 24 to 48 hours before offering them, and you'll see the difference.
What keepers get right: matching the feeder to the moment. For skittish or picky reptiles, start with smaller, high-activity roaches to spark interest. For confident hunters, let a few red runners roam in a feeding bin to simulate natural foraging. If your reptile is recovering from a shed or under the weather, keep portions smaller and prioritize easy wins: short sessions, small prey, and just enough chasing.
Where things go wrong: storage and handling. Room-temperature colonies stay active; cooler temps slow them down if you want calmer handling. Keep the enclosure dry and odor-free with spot cleaning. Avoid overcrowding to prevent stress and die-off. If you're buying in bulk, rotate your stock so the freshest, best-fed roaches go first.
So, are red runners the best feeder roach? For many keepers, yes—when you use them right. Stick to a schedule, stick to right-sized prey, and keep your feeders nourished. Red runners make it simple to deliver reliable nutrition without the noise, odor, or escape artistry that turns feeding time into a chore. Get the basics right—size, schedule, and care—and your reptile does the rest: strong feeds, clean sheds, steady growth, and the calm confidence of an animal that knows how to hunt and win.
Thanks for tuning in. Learn more by visiting the website linked in the podcast notes. MiceDirect City: Cleveland Address: 651 Tom Bell Road USA Website: https://micedirect.com/ Phone: +1 706 892 4136 Email: sales@micedirect.com