DERMESTIDS EAT MEAT

Cleaning skulls is easier than cleaning a dermestid colony

I'm still transfering bugs from the old colony to the clean one. We found that using a deli tray works pretty slick. I placed it down into the substrate and baited it with some moist fresh pork trimmings. The larvae can get in but the sides are to slick to climb and  probably moved a couple hundred today. I baited the tray again and will check it in the morning. Hopefully this chore will be  done by next week this time.

Then I'll start on box number two. Shuddering at the thought of another multi-thousand transfer but it is part of having a colony or three of dermestid beetles.

It is always surprising at how many small larvae you find hiding out until you get a lot of the bigger ones out. Those are going to be the bone cleaners in three or four weeks.

Flesh-eating-beetles are kewl

Dermestid Beetles - The Bone Cleaners

Many people raise dermestid beetles, some sell small starter colonies, others use them to clean skulls and bones. They are a source of income to these folks.

The interesting thing is most hobbiest and a lot of the small businesses really do not have any inkling on what the colonies are capable of.

I started three colonies last year.  Today any one of those colonies those can clean a deer head in less than 2 days. Not bad from a start of less than 700 dermestids per box.  I researched the insects for about two years before taking the big step and buying them.  I've used the information that was dug out of every paper and book I could find to raise these critters.

I am quite pleased at the results so far...and hopeful that things continue.