I much prefer cockroaches over crickets. They will still get their mealworms and crickets and waxworms on occasion, but not often. Crickets are just so awful to keep. Their smell is horrendous! Cockroaches are much healthier, don't make noise, can't infest your home if they get out etc. I love keeping them, and it's a great starter pet for my young children who help care for them.