Ever bought a batch of feeder waxworms, only to find them dead in a few days? Frustrating, right?
These little worms are a favorite treat for reptiles like bearded dragons, geckos, birds, and amphibians, but keeping them alive can be a bit challenging. Waxworms are delicate and a bit picky about their environment, and if you don’t store them right, they’ll either die too soon or turn into moths before you even get a chance to use them.
So, what’s the secret here?
It all comes with the temperature, moisture, and proper storage. You don’t need anything fancy here – just a few tips to help you make your feeder waxworms live longer.
Store Them at the Optimal Temperature
Temperature plays a major role in keeping these worms healthy. If it is too cold, they become sluggish and die. Too warm, and they quickly turn into moths.
- Keep them at 55-60°F/ 10-15℃ to slow down their metabolism.
- Store your Waxworms in your refrigerator door – the warmest spot in the fridge.
Choose the Right Container
The way you store your Waxworms is as important as the temperature. Choose a container that has the proper ventilation. A plastic or glass container with a secure lid works well. There are small holes that’ll provide adequate airflow.
| Note Avoid any sealed containers or packages; lack of oxygen will kill them. |
Should You Feed Them?
Waxworms don’t require much feeding, especially if you want to keep them in their larva stage for longer. However, if you need to keep them alive for an extended period, you can provide them:
- Bran or Oats
- Honey and Glycerin Milk
- Beeswax (Optional)
| Tip Don’t overload- too much food leads to excess moisture, which attracts mold and bacteria. |
Controlling Humidity Level
Make sure the container remains dry. Regularly check the substrate; if it feels damp, replace it immediately. By consistently monitoring these elements, we can create a comfortable environment for the waxworms.
Monitor and Remove Dead Waxworms
One dead waxworm can affect the entire batch. It’s important to regularly check and remove weak or dead ones.
- Inspect the container every few days for any black larvae.
- Remove any that are leaking or have a bad odor.
- Keep the rest in fresh and dry beeding to prevent contamination.
How to Tell If Waxworms Are Still Healthy
Signs of Healthy Waxworms
- Plump, soft, and slightly wriggly when touched.
- Light cream or yellowish in color with no dark spots.
- Dry bedding with no signs of mold or moisture buildup.
Signs of Unhealthy Waxworms:
- Black, Shriveled, or hard bodies indicate that they’re dead.
- Moldy or damp bedding.
- Strong, unpleasant odor (a sign of bacterial growth).
If you notice unhealthy ones, remove them immediately to prevent the spread of the bacteria.
Where To Buy Quality Waxworms
When you purchase waxworms, you need to understand where and how to get healthy, quality stock. You can buy them from various sources, but not everyone is equal.
You can buy them from a local store or some online suppliers. When you buy in person, you can check the condition before making a purchase. At the same time, online sources sell waxworms in bulk. You can check the customer reviews and shipping details, which will help you make a good choice.
Final Thoughts
Keeping feeder waxworms alive doesn’t have to be difficult. By storing them at the right temperature, preventing moisture buildup, and providing a proper container, you can extend their lifespan and keep them in good condition.
So, these are the tips you can follow to make your Waxworm live longer!
