We have tried to compile a list of the most commonly asked questions that people have regarding the keeping and raising of superworms as a food source.  If you have a question that you would like to ask and see here, please email it to us as we are always adding to this list!

Is it true that superworms can eat their way out of a reptile's stomach?
No.  This is just a myth and we have never been presented any scientific data yet to prove this has actually happened.  Your reptile's stomach has digestive juices which will actually kill the superworm quite quickly - if the teeth don't do it first!

Can superworms hurt my reptile in any way?
Yes. It is possible for your reptile to be hurt my a superworm but this rarely happens if you are careful.  Loose superworms can nibble on your reptile if it is weak/sick/sleeping.  Be sure to include a fresh piece of carrot or something for the superworm to nibble on in case it escapes the mouth of your hungry reptile!  Feeding too many superworms or ones that are too large can also be harmful.  Do not overfeed your reptile and try to offer freshly molted superworms as they are softer and much easier to digest. 

 Can I put my superworms in the fridge to slow them down?
No.  Unlike with mealworms, you cannot put superworms in the fridge to slow down their growth.  They need to be kept at a temperature between 80 and 85F.

 What size superworm should I offer my lizard?
It is far better for your reptile if you offer it more smaller prey items than fewer larger ones.  The smaller ones tend to be more nutritious and much easier to digest.  A good rule of thumb is to offer insects whose width is no more than 1/3rd the width of the reptile's head.  The insects should also be no longer than 1 times the length of the reptile's head.

Why are some of my worms all white and squishy?
These are just superworms (larvae) that have just molted - as with other insects, superworms periodically shed their exoskeleton.  They simply lack the brown chitinous rings that you see on superworms that have not molted.  These are much easier for reptiles to chew and to digest which is why we always recommend offering these as food whenever possible.  These are a great way to help tempt stubborn feeders to eat!

Can superworms harbor any type of diseases?
As with any feeder insect, it is possible for superworms to harbor a variety of diseases - although this rarely happens.  For example, some superworms may have come into contact with contaminated fecal matter or water if they have been fed to one reptile, removed uneaten and then placed in an enclosure with another.

It is also possible for superworms to harbor things such as bacterial and viral infections as well.  Bacterial problems often start when housed in a moldy/damp environment for example.