Can chameleons eat grasshoppers?

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Short Answer

Yes

Safety Summary

✔ Safe: Yes — captive-raised or store-bought only
⚠ Use caution: Wild-caught grasshoppers are risky
✖ Toxic: No

Why

Grasshoppers and locusts are natural chameleon prey and an excellent supplemental feeder. Their large size and active jumping makes them stimulating prey. Captive-raised locusts are widely available in Europe and increasingly in the US. Wild-caught grasshoppers are risky due to pesticide and parasite exposure. As always, gut-load and dust before feeding.

Portion Guidance

A few as part of a varied feeding rotation. Good for variety and feeding enrichment.

Risks & Symptoms

Wild-caught: pesticide and parasite exposure
Too large: injury or regurgitation
No toxicity from captive-raised specimens

FAQ

Are locusts the same as grasshoppers?

Locusts are a type of grasshopper (specifically swarming species) — both are suitable feeders.

Can I catch grasshoppers from my garden?

Not recommended — pesticide and herbicide exposure makes wild-caught insects risky.

Disclaimer

This is general information and not veterinary advice. Consult a reptile vet for guidance specific to your chameleon species.