Dubia cockroaches (Blaptica dubia) are one of the most popular feeder insects for bearded dragons, and for good reason. These tropical roaches are packed with protein, low in fat, and offer a soft exoskeleton that makes them easy to digest. Whether you’re raising a baby dragon or feeding an adult, choosing the right size Dubia roaches is key to your pet’s health and digestion.
But the question many new owners ask is: what size roaches should I feed my bearded dragon? In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from size charts and feeding tips to safety and growth stages—so you can confidently provide the best diet possible for your scaly friend.
Why Size Matters When Feeding These Roaches?
Bearded dragons vary in size depending on age, and their feeder insects should match their current stage of development. Feeding roaches that are too large can lead to:
- Choking or impaction
- Loss of appetite
- Digestive stress
- Reluctance to eat
The golden rule?
Never feed your bearded dragon a roach that’s larger than the space between their eyes. This is the safest way to measure if the insect is an appropriate size.
Roach Sizes and What They Mean
At TopFlight Dubia, you can find roaches sold in very specific sizes to suit every reptile stage:
- Extra Small (⅛” to ¼”) – Perfect for newly hatched baby dragons
- Small (¼” to ⅜”) – Ideal for dragons under 4 inches in length
- Small-Medium (⅜” to ½”) – Good for growing juveniles
- Medium (½” to ¾”) – Suitable for dragons around 6–8 inches
- Medium-Large (¾” to 1”) – Best for sub-adults
- Large/Adult Roaches (1”+) – Only for full-grown bearded dragons (over 16 inches)
Choosing the Right Size Based on Dragon’s Age
Let’s break it down by life stage so you can see exactly what to buy:
Baby Bearded Dragons (0–3 Months)
- Feed size: ⅛” to ¼” roaches (extra small)
- Feeding frequency: 3–5 times per day
Tip: Baby dragons eat a lot and need frequent feeding. Offer as many as they can eat in 10–15 minutes.
Juvenile Bearded Dragons (3–6 Months)
- Feed size: ¼” to ½” Dubia roaches (small to small-medium)
- Feeding frequency: 2–3 times per day
Tip: As your dragon grows, gradually increase the roach size. Still offer them multiple times a day.
Sub-Adult Bearded Dragons (6–12 Months)
- Feed size: ½” to 1” roaches (medium to medium-large)
- Feeding frequency: 1–2 times per day
Tip: Combine protein-rich roaches with leafy greens to start balancing their diet.
Adult Bearded Dragons (12+ Months)
- Feed size: 1”+ (adult roaches)
- Feeding frequency: 3–4 times a week
Tip: Adults don’t need as much protein. Limit feeders to avoid obesity.
Feeding Tips for Roaches
Here are a few simple tips to make feeding time safe and efficient:
- Dust with calcium: Always dust roaches with calcium powder 3–5 times a week to support bone health.
- Gut-load: Feed roaches with nutrient-rich food (like carrots or greens) 24 hours before feeding your dragon.
- Use feeding tongs: This keeps your hands safe and allows for more control.
- Monitor behavior: If your dragon spits out the roach or ignores it, the size may be too large.
Conclusion
Feeding your bearded dragon the right-sized Dubia roaches is essential for their health, growth, and digestion. By choosing roaches that match your dragon’s age and size, you reduce the risk of choking, impaction, and feeding stress. Remember, the safest rule is to never feed an insect larger than the space between their eyes. Whether you’re raising a hatchling or caring for a full-grown adult, adjusting feeder size along the way ensures a balanced and happy diet. With proper dusting, gut-loading, and observation, these roaches can be a safe, nutritious, and cost-effective staple in your bearded dragon’s daily care.
