Question 1

Could I place a colony of 2,500 on a deer head and let them use that as food, while the colony grows?  Would I need to add food?

Accepted Answer

I wouldn't suggest putting a deer head in with a starter colony of that quantity because they won't be able to complete the skull before it dries out or rots. You don't want to have to remove a skull that hasn't been cleaned if you don't have to because you will undoubtedly remove bugs and eggs that would have otherwise added to your colonies size. After receiving your colony I suggest keeping them well fed on scraps or store bought meat and at around 80 degrees until they grow their numbers to a size that can complete the skull in a matter of a couple of days. If you start with 2,500 I estimate it being around a month and a half to two months before they are ready to complete a well prepared deer skull. During that time you will be able to gauge how much meat your colony can consume so you have a better idea about when they are ready to clean your skull.

Thanks,
Chuck

Question 2

What do you feed them to keep them alive?  Do you feed them when they are working on a Skull?

Accepted Answer

They eat any type of meat as long as you dry it to the consistency of soft beef jerky. Make sure you freeze it for a couple days before adding it to the tank to kill off any hitchhiking bugs or eggs that could contaminate your colony.

If you have a skull being cleaned you won't want to feed them until after they finish the skull. If you do place extra meat in with them it will take longer to complete the skull and it may dry out or rot before they finish it.

Thanks,
Chuck

Question 3

do your kits contain adult , larvae, and pupae? Do you include any instructions on how to construct/maintain the colony?

Accepted Answer

Hi,

All of the colonies I have for sale will come with all stages of the life cycle from the egg to adult. I do not include a "quick start guide" because you can easily find more in depth information through a Google search. I am available before and after the sale to answer any questions you may have though.

Thanks,
Chuck

Walks Again Taxidermy® 2,500 Dermestid Beetles & Larvae – Live Insects for Taxidermy Skull Cleaning

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