Looking for the perfect feeder insect for your dart frogs, baby geckos, mantids, or inverts? Our flightless fruit flies are a must-have. Easy to use, nutrient-packed, and escape-proof (yep—they don’t fly), these little guys are ideal for small insectivores with fast metabolisms and tiny mouths.
We currently stock two species—melanogaster and hydei—so you can find the perfect match for your pet’s size and appetite.
Nutritional Benefits
Fruit flies might be small, but they’re mighty when it comes to feeding value. Here’s why they’re a great addition to your critter’s diet:
Protein-Rich: Great for growth and energy, especially in young or small insect-eaters.
Easily Digestible: Soft-bodied and gut-loaded, making them safe and nutritious.
Perfect for Small Species: Whether you’ve got dart frogs, baby geckos, mantises, or spiderlings—fruit flies are a go-to staple.
Feeding Made Easy
Feeding fruit flies is simple—even for first-timers. Here’s how:
Tap & Sprinkle
Gently tap the cup on a hard surface to knock the flies down. Then open the lid and lightly shake a few into your pet’s enclosure. Close it fast—they may not fly, but they are fast.
Use a Feeding Cup
If you use a feeding ledge or dish, just dump a few flies in and let your pet go to town. They’ll stay contained and crawl around naturally.
Leave Some Behind
Only take what you need! The flies left in the cup will continue to breed, giving you a fresh supply for weeks. A well-maintained culture can last 1–2 months.
Avoid Overharvesting
Always leave some adults in the cup so the next generation can grow. Too many feedings too fast = no more flies.
Choosing the Right Type
We carry both species so you can pick what’s best for your critter:
Drosophila melanogaster
Smaller size (thumbnail dart frogs, spiderlings, baby geckos)
Reproduces quickly—expect new flies in about 2 weeks
Drosophila hydei
Larger size (mantids, small lizards, juvenile frogs)
Takes about 3 weeks for the next wave of flies, but comes in hot when it does
Not sure which to pick? Unless your pet is super tiny, most people go with hydei for the extra size and visibility.
Why Fruit Flies from Critter Cafe?
Zero Flight Drama: These suckers can’t fly, so no annoying bugs buzzing your face
Packed & Fresh: We ship active cultures ready to use, with more babies on the way
No Fuss: No feeding or misting required—just store them at room temp and tap some out when it’s feeding time
Made for Reptiles & Inverts: These are raised clean, gut-loaded, and perfect for your pets
Add Fruit Flies to Your Feeder Lineup
Whether you’ve got dart frogs or baby dragons, these flies are a no-brainer. Easy to handle, nutritionally solid, and escape-proof—because chasing bugs around your living room isn’t on your to-do list.