Butterworms

Butterworms

Butterworms are an interesting new type of livefood which is slowly making an appearance in pet shops and from livefood suppliers online. They make excellent livefood for a variety of exotic pets, readily being accepted by many different reptiles, amphibians, birds, fish and small mammals.

Butterworms are native to Chile and have fat smooth bodies, similar to those of waxworms, however butterworms grown much bigger and provide a greater source of nutrition. They have a naturally fruity smell and a red-yellow colour which many exotic pets find irresistible. Nutritionally butterworms are one of the best types of livefood available. They have calcium levels double that of any other feeder insect used for livefood and also have high protein levels (even higher than silkworms). In the wild butterworms get their nutrition from the leaves of the Tebo tree; however in captivity we are unable to provide these so they will never eat.

Butterworms are usually packed into a tub with a wheat bran substrate. This is mainly used to absorb moisture rather than to provide a food source as your butterworms will not eat it. Once you receive your butterworms you should immediately check that the substrate is completely dry as any moisture will result in the death of your butterworms. If it is not completely dry you should change the substrate immediately for fresh wheat bran, oatmeal or another organic substrate. Once you are sure the substrate is dry you will need to store your butterworms in the vegetable drawer of your fridge.

The cold conditions slow their metabolism and induce a hibernation like state. This means that your butterworms have no need for food or water and can be safely stored for 4 months or more this way. When ready to use as livefood, simply remove the number of butterworms that are required to feed your exotic pet and allow them to warm up. You will notice they become more lively once warm and will know that they can now be fed to your pet. Unlike other feeder insects, butterworms cannot bite so are completely safe for your pet.

Occasionally you may notice your butterworms trying to spin a cocoon but they will never pupate. This is because butterworms are considered a pest in most countries and are subjected to strict import/export regulations. As such, they are irradiated before leaving Chile which prevents them from pupating and breeding in captivity. This fact means they can only be reared in Chile and as such they demand a high price for these wonderful feeders.