Multiple species in one outdoor bin?

[MayQueen]

I plan on having a latch tote of considerable size so it'll be heavy. There are raccoons that come by, if need be I'll get crafty. I was only going to do native stuff in the chance of an escapee. Worms, isopods and crickets all live right out back already. Thank you again for the information and help!

[daybr4ke]

Hi! While I love the idea of using native insects, there are some issues I feel I should mention. Wild insects often carry some degree of parasites, which they can pass to your frog when eaten. There may be a way to treat insects for parasites to prepare them for colony creation, but I don't know how. I suppose you could also simply seperate the eggs from the adults and never use the wild caught crickets as feeders. That way they (should?) never pass the parasites onto their young. However, outside it is
harder to limit their contact with other insects that may pass them onto the colony anyway. Also, Raccoons can work simple latches, so you may have to "get crafty" lol. Honestly, I would recommend keeping them inside or in a shed or garage if it's not attached to the house, or a greenhouse. Something to keep it out of reach of the raccoons. I hope this helps. Good luck!

[MayQueen]

I wasn't planning on using any of the wild species near me, only feeders I order online or at a local pet shop (not a chain store). I am doing lots of research to make sure it's something that can't get into by raccoons or other bugs. I should mention I am in a city so no garage or shed and the raccoons are more interested in people's trash. I have crickets that are quite loud all very close to my deck and I've never seen them hunt any, only once they grabbed a moth that was attracted to the light. If it really doesn't work I do have an attic but it's a bigger pain to get to. I plan to get these possible issues resolved before even getting any toads.

[MayQueen]

After doing more research on each individual feeder I am abandoning this idea of a multi species outdoor bin. I wasn't worried about raccoons but had no idea ants go after crickets plus I don't want my pet getting parasites. It'll be a PITA but I think the warmth of the attic will be a good alternative when temps are right. In the winter I could still do worms and isopods indoors. I have a good source for crickets that I could walk to and get as needed in the winter and just keep them for a day or two to gutload. I also plan on ordering other species such as silkworms here and there to keep a varied diet. Thank you again to everyone for the advice and input.

[Hibiscusmile]

I dont know, wouldnt it be easier to keep the spouse outside instead?