Top Benefits of Feeding Calci Worms to Birds and Hedgehogs

Calci worms, the larvae of the black soldier fly, are rich in calcium and protein. These nutrients make them an excellent food source for birds and hedgehogs. In this article we’ll look at the benefits, compare to other options and give tips on feeding and storage. Plus you’ll find out why they’re an eco friendly option for wildlife.

Key Points

• Calci Worms, or Phoenix worms, are highly nutritious larvae rich in calcium and protein, great for birds and hedgehogs.

• Dried Calci Worms have many advantages over mealworms; higher calcium content, easier storage and more cost effective for wildlife feeders.

• Proper storage of dried Calci Worms is important to maintain their nutritional value, cool dry place will keep them long and fresh.

What Are Calci Worms?

Calci worms, also known as Phoenix worms, are actually worms are the larvae of the black soldier fly. Their scientific name is Hermetia illucens. These little larvae are not only a nutritional powerhouse but are also eco friendly. They can be produced from organic waste materials, reducing food waste and good for the environment.

The larvae of the black soldier fly are known for their nutritional value. They are packed with essential nutrients that make them a great addition to the diet of many wildlife, especially birds and hedgehogs. Their impressive nutrient profile includes high calcium, protein and essential amino acids all essential for the health and wellbeing of these animals. The black soldier fly larvae can also convert organic waste into high quality protein.

Feeding Calci Worms supports wildlife and eco friendly practices and can form a part of a balanced diet when mixed with other seeds and peanut bird foods. Their many benefits is why they are becoming a popular choice among wildlife feeders.

Dried Calciworms vs Mealworms

When it comes to feeding wildlife both Calci Worms and dried mealworms are popular options. But dried Calci Worms have many advantages over dried mealworms. One of the biggest is their higher calcium content. Dried Calci Worms have 50 times more calcium than dried mealworms, stronger bones and healthier eggs in wild birds. Dried Calci Worms are easier to store than mealworms. They can be stored in a cool dry place and have a longer shelf life, so you can always have a nutritious treat for your garden visitors without having to make frequent trips to the shop.

Dried Calci Worms are cost effective. They are often priced well and can be bought in bulk reducing the cost per feeding. You can also feed dried calci worms and many suppliers offer free delivery so it’s even more convenient to top up.

Overall feeding Calci Worms to garden birds and hedgehogs is good for them and convenient for you. With stronger bones, healthier eggs and easier storage it’s clear why dried Calci Worms are the better option.

Feeding Calci Worms to Garden Birds

Garden birds love Calci Worms in their diet. These worms are more moist than traditional mealworms which can be a big advantage in warmer climates. By mixing dried Calci Worms with seed mixes or placing them on bird tables you can attract many bird species to your garden.

Birds may be hesitant to try Calci Worms at first because of their size and appearance but they quickly become a favourite once they realise the benefits. Species such as blackbirds, robins, thrushes, sparrows, tit family and woodpeckers love these worms. The high protein and calcium content helps with muscle development and overall health.

Calci Worms should not replace a balanced diet but as a supplement or treat. Offering a variety of foods including sunflower hearts and seed mixes will ensure birds get a balanced diet. During breeding season the extra calcium helps with egg and vertebrate development.

Bird tables and mixing Calci Worms with other bird food can turn your garden into a wildlife haven. This will attract many species and provide them with the nutrients they need to thrive.

How Calci Worms Benefit Hedgehogs

Hedgehogs like birds benefit from Calci Worms in their diet. These calcium rich worms help with strong bones which is important for overall health of hedgehogs. They also provide essential vitamins A, B, C, D and E and minerals iron and magnesium which are essential for hedgehog health. Calci Worms have up to 50% animal protein which is essential for muscle development and growth in hedgehogs. The fat content in these worms provides a good energy source which is great for hedgehogs activity levels. They are also rich in omega 3 fatty acids which have many health benefits including anti inflammatory properties.

Soaking Calci Worms in water before feeding to hedgehogs prevents dehydration and improves digestion. This step ensures proper hydration along with the nutritional benefits and overall health and vitality of these nocturnal animals.

Live vs Dried Calci Worms: Which Is Better?

Choosing between live and dried Calci Worms depends on your situation. Live Calci Worms require more complex feeding system to keep them contained and accessible for feeding. They provide better hydration due to their natural moisture content which can be good for animals that need extra hydration.

On the other hand dried Calci Worms are easier to store and have longer shelf life. They don’t require the same level of maintenance as live worms so they are more convenient for many pet owners. The soft exoskeleton of Calci Worms whether live or dried makes them easy to digest for many birds and animals.

The choice between live and dried Calci Worms depends on convenience and dietary needs. Dried Calci Worms are good for minimal maintenance while live ones provide extra hydration and may be better in certain situations.

How to Store Dried Calci Worms

Proper storage of dried Calci Worms maintains their freshness and nutritional value. Store them in their original container at room temperature in a cool dry place. If the substrate is too dry add occasional moisture to maintain the right conditions.

Dried Calci Worms will last for several weeks if stored properly so they are great for those who prefer minimal maintenance. This longevity combined with ease of storage makes dried Calci Worms a great choice for pet owners and wildlife enthusiasts.

Nutritional Profile of Calci Worms

Calci Worms have an impressive nutritional profile that makes them a great addition to the diet of birds and hedgehogs. They have 20-40 times more calcium than other dried insects which promotes stronger bones and healthier eggs in birds. This high calcium content is especially good during breeding season that helps with egg and vertebrate development. In addition to the high calcium content Calci Worms have protein content up to 50% which supports muscle and tissue development in birds and hedgehogs. Calci Worms are also rich in essential amino acids for various bodily functions and positive calcium levels.

Compared to dried mealworms Calci Worms have higher fat and calcium content which provides more energy and eggshell strength. This makes them a better choice for your garden wildlife. The combination of high protein, essential amino acids and higher calcium content makes Calci Worms a nutritional powerhouse.

Calci worm provide balanced diet for birds and hedgehogs. Their nutritional profile ensures these animals get the nutrients to thrive.

Conclusion

Feeding Calci Worms to birds and hedgehogs has many benefits from high calcium and protein content to convenience and environmental friendliness. These nutrient rich larvae support strong bones, healthy eggs and overall vitality making them a great addition to your garden wildlife diet.

By including Calci Worms in your feeding routine you can ensure your garden birds and hedgehogs get the nutrients they need to thrive. Their ease of storage and availability makes them a practical choice for wildlife enthusiasts. Try Calci Worms and watch your garden visitors flourish with health and vitality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are calciworms, and how are they different from mealworms?

• Answer: Calciworms are the larvae of black soldier flies and contain significantly more calcium than mealworms, making them a highly nutritious option for birds.

Are calciworms good for all types of garden birds?

• Answer: Yes, many garden birds, including robins, blackbirds, and blue tits, enjoy calciworms due to their high calcium and protein content.

How do calciworms benefit wild birds' health?

• Answer: Calciworms support strong bones, healthy egg production, and feather growth, making them an excellent supplement for wild birds.

Can I feed calciworms to birds all year round?

• Answer: Yes, calciworms are beneficial year-round, especially during breeding and moulting seasons when birds need extra calcium.

How should I store calciworms to keep them fresh?

• Answer: Store dried calciworms in a cool, dry place in a sealed container to prevent moisture and pests from spoiling them.