Why Feeder Mealworms Are Essential
Whether you’re raising chickens, keeping reptiles, or feeding wild birds, feeder mealworms are an incredible source of nutrition. Loved for their high protein content, these little insects are nature’s powerhouse for supporting the health of animals.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about feeder mealworms—from their nutritional value and the benefits for different animals to how to source and store them effectively.
Nutritional Benefits of Mealworms
What makes mealworms so valuable is their impressive nutritional profile. Packed with protein and healthy fats, feeder mealworms ensure your animals stay active and healthy.
- High Protein: Mealworms are rich in protein, with approximately 20-25% protein content by dry weight. This makes them ideal for muscle growth and development in your animals.
- Healthy Fats: Their healthy fat content provides energy, especially for birds during cold weather or chickens during egg production.
- Fiber: Mealworms also contain a good amount of fiber to promote digestive health in animals.
Feeding Mealworms to Reptiles
Reptiles like bearded dragons, geckos, and turtles thrive on the protein found in mealworms.
Tips for Feeding Your Reptiles
- Choose the Right Size: Smaller mealworms are better for young reptiles, while adult reptiles can handle larger mealworms or even giant mealworms.
- Gut Load for Added Nutrition: Before feeding, “gut-load” the mealworms by feeding them nutritious food like vegetables. This increases the vitamins your reptiles receive.
- Feed in Moderation: Too many mealworms can lead to excessive fat intake, so consider them as a treat or supplemental food.
Birds and Mealworms
Mealworms are a favorite for many birds, whether you’re caring for wild birds or keeping a pet parrot. They’re especially beneficial during nesting and migration when birds need extra protein.
Attracting Birds with Mealworms
- Wild Birds: Use a specialty mealworm feeder, like the Mosloly Metal Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeder, which has a caged design to keep large birds and pests out. Its weatherproof design ensures the mealworms stay fresh. Buy it on Amazon here.
- Pet Birds: Add mealworms as a healthy supplement to their regular seed mix.
Bird Species That Love Mealworms
- Bluebirds
- Robins
- Woodpeckers
- Wrens
How Mealworms Improve Chicken Diets
For chicken keepers, mealworms can be a game-changer. They’re great for feather growth, egg production, and overall health.
Key Benefits for Chickens
- Protein Boost During Molting: Chickens require extra protein when they molt to regrow their feathers.
- Stronger Eggs: The added calcium and vitamins from mealworms enhance eggshell strength.
- Winter Energy: Mealworms provide a rich energy source during the colder months.
Feeding Guidelines
Start with around 10-12 mealworms per chicken as a treat or as part of their dietary supplementation.
Sourcing and Storing Mealworms
Buying and storing mealworms properly ensures you maintain their quality and freshness.
Where to Buy Mealworms
You can source live or dried mealworms from pet stores, online vendors, or farm supply stores. Dried mealworms are often more convenient and easier to store.
How to Store Mealworms
- Live Mealworms
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- Keep them in a container with oatmeal or wheat bran as bedding.
- Place the container in a cool, dark area, or refrigerate them at around 40°F to slow their growth.
- Dried Mealworms
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- Store them in airtight containers in a cool, dry place.
Create a Welcoming Environment for Birds
Interested in making your space bird-friendly? The Mosloly Metal Bird Feeder is perfect for small birds like bluebirds. Its caged squirrel-proof design keeps pests out while providing a safe feeding area for smaller birds. It makes a perfect gift for bird enthusiasts, available here.
Why Mealworms Are the Ultimate Feeder Choice
Feeder mealworms offer a perfect balance of nutrition and convenience for birds, reptiles, and chickens alike. With their high protein content and versatility, they’re a fantastic option for any animal keeper.
Try introducing them to your animal’s diet today and experience the difference.