Each and every week throughout the year Livefoods Direct breeds a minimum of 150,000 Locusts.

Locusts are nurtured on a very high fibre diet consisting of wheat bran and green leaf vegetables. Locusts have an amazing growth rate, from hatching out of its egg pod to being able to reproduce itself a locust can take as little as 42 days in ideal conditions. Adult locusts are approximately 7cm. It is not only the size of locusts that makes them an attractive food source to predators, but also the bright yellow wing case and abdomen, make a perfect treat for large chameleons or geckos. Large locusts are an excellent food for various small primates, including Galagos, Marmosets, Tamarins etc. Locusts are also valuable for large birds such as Jays, Magpies and other Corvids, Jay-Thrushes etc. Small and medium sized locusts are an important part of many rearing softbill bird diets too.

Locusts are available in 5 sizes which are listed below

• Locusts Small/Medium 12-20mm

• Locusts Medium 20-30mm

• Locusts Large 30-40mm

• Locusts Extra Large 40-50mm

• Locusts Adult 55-70mm



Locusts can be purchased in different sizes, and different packs depending on the quantity, and the size the customer requires. Packs vary from prepacks containing 5 locust adults to bags of locust containing 100 of whatever size the customer requires.

Locusts must be kept in a warm dry enclosure, with humidity at a minimum. Damp or cool conditions can cause the locusts to lose their colour and eventually they may even die. Locust that have been travelling overnight, by courier or postal service will need to be transferred on arrival. Use a larger box or tank with a tight-fitting well ventilated lid. The locusts should be stored at a temperature of 25-30 degree centigrade (80-85 degrees Fahrenheit). Locusts need perching areas, these can be provided for the locusts in the form of cardboard egg cartons. This will also reduce stress which will in turn reduce cannibalism. A small saucer of bran or progrub can also be placed in with the locusts.

Fresh cabbage leaves should be provided daily for the locusts. Ensure that any cabbage is washed so that any pesticide trace is very low. Feed the locusts daily, any uneaten old leaves should be removed from the locust habitat.