How much to feed our Yellow Throated Plated Lizard

Question
Thea,

You've answered our questions concerning "Colby" so well, it only makes sense to keep nagging you.  ;o)

Our instructions were to feed him 4-5 crickets every other day, and on the off days to give him a few bits of fruit.  That seems fine, but he attacks and gulps down the crickets so fast, it seems like perhaps he's more hungry than we're allowing him to eat.  Is there a standard feeding schedule for an adult lizard like him?  Should we stick with what we've been doing?

(BTW, he loves the new bigger cage, and is able to fully bury himself in the reptile bark, which he LOVES to do!)

Answer
Hello again, Glad to hear he is doing well! Fast moving insects like crickets tend to inspire enthusiatic hunting in many reptiles. It's not neccessarily a reflection of their hunger level. If your schedule works out to about 20 insects a week then that should be fine. It's important for omnivorous reptiles to consume a balance of both insects and fruit/veg. You want to keep him hungry enough that he still takes his fruit etc. on the alternate days. What I would suggest is varying the type of feeder insect that you offer. They all have different levels of fats, proteins and minerals. The large species of mealworms are relished by most reptiles (put them in a small bowl to feed or they burrow) as well as silkworms. Most stores that sell crickets should also have these. As a bonus both of these insects are quieter and easier maintain then crickets. Colby should be getting a powdered calcium supplement dusted onto his crickets at least once or twice a week as well. If you have any other questions, don't hesitate to ask.
Cheers,

Thea