Can Ball Pythons Eat Superworms?

Can a Ball Python Eat Superworms?

No — superworms are not appropriate for a ball python.

Superworms (Zophobas morio) are roughly 20% protein and 18% fat, and they reach about two inches — considerably larger than a mealworm. That size and that fat content are why animals love them.

The number that decides how they should be used is calcium. Superworms carry around 100 mg/kg of calcium. Black soldier fly larvae carry about 9,340 mg/kg — roughly ninety times more. A superworm is a rich, filling feeder that supplies almost no calcium at all, which is why dusting is not a refinement here. It is the whole point.

How Many, and How Often

None — ball pythons eat whole prey.

The Risk That Matters for a Ball Python

Rodent-eating snakes get nothing from insects and will not recognise one as food.

What to Feed Instead

The staple should be appropriately-sized frozen-thawed rodents. Superworms are a supplement to a diet, not the diet.

More detail in the complete superworm guide.