toxic bugs?

dave68 · 03-18-04, 01:44 PM

just curious,does anybody know if box elder bugs are toxic. i have them all over my house/yard would be nice to use as food for geckos and such. thanks.

Drew S · 03-18-04, 02:39 PM

I wouldn't do it, according to my book:

"Fire Flies are lethal to bearded dragons. They will keel over dead with in a few minutes. Fireflies contain a type of steroid, which is called lucibufagin. It is similar to plant steroids like digitalis. Box elder bugs can also be lethal."

Toirtis · 03-18-04, 06:44 PM

Generally avoid and bugs that are bright, red or orange.

Lisa · 03-18-04, 08:24 PM

I wouldn't grab any wild caught bugs, who knows what pesticides they have been exposed to.

dave68 · 03-18-04, 11:35 PM

Being that they are in my yard which is fairly secluded, I'm pretty sure they're free of pesticides/insecticides. I've fed my gecko's (both leos and takay's) the occasional spider or moth for many year's now and it hasn't harmed anyone so far. I've been in touch with a lawn and pest control company and the owner is going to get back to me tommorow to let me know more about these little pests.

dave68 · 03-18-04, 11:37 PM

just caaught a mistake I meant Tokays....oops

Lisa · 03-19-04, 12:18 AM

Bugs tend to be well traveled, it's not uncommon for them to be blown miles about.

jadegrasse · 03-27-04, 09:19 PM

My day geckos love the large spiders that live under the overhang on the house.