Waxworms

Live waxworms for sale in cups of 50, 100 and 250. Waxworms are the larvae of the greater wax moth, Galleria mellonella. They are soft, slow and high in fat, a treat feeder for leopard geckos, bearded dragons and picky eaters.

Waxworm nutrition

In Mark Finke's published analyses, waxworms measure 58.5% moisture, 14.1% protein and 24.9% fat as fed. That is more than three times the fat of adult crickets. A 2015 analysis found waxworms fell short on more nutrients than crickets or mealworms once their fat was counted. It concluded that lower-fat insects, properly supplemented, should make up most of an insectivore's diet. Like most feeders, waxworms carry more phosphorus than calcium, at about 1:8.

How often to feed waxworms

The veterinary authors at VCA Animal Hospitals advise feeding waxworms sparingly and not daily, because the fat can cause obesity. LafeberVet calls them an occasional high-fat feeder. No veterinary source sets an exact schedule. Many keepers offer a few once a week or less, and cut back if a gecko's tail and belly start to look heavy. For everyday meals, use a staple such as dubia roaches. Our guides to the best feeder insects for leopard geckos and the best feeder insects for bearded dragons show where treats fit.

How to store waxworms

Keep waxworms cool, at about 55 to 60 F, in the cup they came in. Research labs that use waxworm larvae commonly hold them at 59 F or at room temperature for one to three weeks before use. Buy what you will feed in that time.

Shipping and live arrival

Orders ship sometime between Sunday and Wednesday to the lower 48 states and DC. We may hold an order when heat or cold on the route puts live insects at risk. If any waxworms arrive dead, email photos or video within 1 hour of delivery, and we resend a qualifying order once at no cost. Details are on our shipping page.

Subscribe and save on waxworms

Subscribe and save 15% on deliveries every 1, 2 or 3 months. Subscription deliveries of $35 or more ship free, and you can skip, pause or cancel from your account. Pet stores and breeders can apply for a wholesale account.