OPEN THE GATES
On arrival
Inspect the larvae and the condition of their bedding. Keep a purchased feeding batch in its suitable original container when it provides adequate space and ventilation. Move a crowded or damaged shipment to an equivalent clean holding container.
BUILD THE REFUGE
A secure holding setup
Maintain dry bedding and a secure ventilated lid. Keep the container away from direct sun and household pantry foods. Waxworms can develop into moths, so a lid that only holds the larger larvae may not contain every later life stage.
KEEP A STEADY WATCH
Temperature & placement
A cool location around 55–65°F (13–18°C) is a practical short-term holding range for feeding stock. A normal household refrigerator can be colder than this. Do not assume all fridge shelves are suitable; check the actual temperature and follow the batch instructions.
PROVISION THE COLONY
Food & hydration
Purchased feeder waxworms are generally held in the dry bedding they arrive in, without adding wet produce or water. A breeding culture is a separate project with a prepared wax-moth diet. Do not turn a holding cup into a breeding mix by adding honey or liquids.
THE DAILY WATCH
Care between feedings
Inspect for dark, dead, or damaged larvae and remove them. Keep the bedding dry and replace a dirty container rather than allowing moisture and decay to build up. Offer waxworms as part of an appropriate feeding plan; their richness makes them a treat option rather than a universal sole feeder.
AVOID THE COMMON TRAPS
Mistakes worth preventing
- Adding carrot or water as if the cup were a mealworm bed.
- Placing the cup in a freezing-cold area.
- Assuming a high-fat treat is suitable as every pet’s only feeder.