Live worms serve many purposes, from enriching soil to attracting fish. Whether a person needs a small quantity for a single fishing trip or a bulk order for a composting operation, sourcing these organisms requires matching the intended use to the specific species available. This guide details the types of worms available, the best purchasing options, and how to keep them healthy.
Matching the Worm Type to the Purpose
The intended use determines the specific worm species required, as different worms have distinct biological traits.
Composting and Vermiculture
For composting, the Red Wiggler (Eisenia fetida) is the preferred choice. This species is an epigeic earthworm, meaning it lives and feeds primarily in the top layer of organic matter rather than burrowing deep. Red Wigglers are highly efficient at breaking down organic waste into nutrient-rich castings, which are used as a natural soil amendment. They are relatively small, growing between one and five inches long, and are tolerant of a wide temperature range, making them adaptable for home composting bins.
Fishing Bait
For fishing bait, the Nightcrawler is the most common choice, though this term covers a few different species. The Canadian Nightcrawler (Lumbricus terrestris) is the largest variety, reaching up to ten or twelve inches, making it ideal for catching larger game fish. The European Nightcrawler (Eisenia hortensis) is also popular for both fishing and composting due to its robust nature and size, typically three to five inches long. These nightcrawlers offer the size and durability anglers seek.
Live Animal Feed
Live animal feed for reptiles, amphibians, or birds relies on insect larvae rather than true earthworms. Mealworms, the larval stage of the darkling beetle, and waxworms, the larvae of the wax moth, are the most frequently sold feeder insects. Waxworms are high in fat content and are often used as a treat. Mealworms are a more staple food source, providing protein and fiber, and both are commonly used to feed small insectivorous pets.
Local Retailers and Physical Stores
For immediate needs and smaller quantities, local brick-and-mortar stores offer the quickest solution for acquiring live worms.
Bait shops are the most reliable source for fishing worms, particularly Canadian Nightcrawlers. They are often sold in small cups or cartons with peat moss bedding. These stores cater to anglers and usually maintain refrigerated storage to keep the bait fresh and active. The availability of other species, like Red Wigglers, at a bait shop may be seasonal.
Garden centers and nurseries are the best local option for sourcing composting worms. They frequently stock Red Wigglers, especially during the spring and summer months when gardening activity increases. These retailers may also carry European Nightcrawlers, which are suitable for both composting and fishing. Buying locally eliminates shipping costs and allows for a visual inspection of the worms’ health before purchase.
Pet supply stores, including large national chains and smaller independent shops, specialize in live feeder insects. These stores consistently carry mealworms and waxworms, which are sold in small, ventilated containers. While some pet stores may carry composting worms, their primary focus remains on the feed market, offering a steady supply of larvae throughout the year.
Purchasing from Online Suppliers and Farms
Buying directly from online suppliers or worm farms is the most practical method for bulk purchases or specialized species. Dedicated vermicomposting suppliers can offer Red Wigglers or African Nightcrawlers (Eudrilus eugeniae) in large quantities, offering better pricing per unit. This channel provides access to species that are difficult to find locally, such as African Nightcrawlers, which are efficient composters that thrive in warmer climates.
The logistics of shipping living organisms require specific attention to ensure the worms arrive alive. Reputable online vendors use temperature-controlled packaging, such as insulated boxes and cool packs, to maintain a favorable environment during transit. Customers should look for a supplier that offers a live delivery guarantee, which protects the buyer if the worms arrive dead or lethargic. Expedited shipping is often recommended, especially during periods of high heat or cold, to minimize transit time.
Essential Care Tips for Newly Purchased Worms
Upon receiving a shipment of worms, immediate attention to their environment is necessary to help them recover from the stress of transit. The worms should be gently introduced to their new bedding material right away. The bedding should be kept consistently moist, feeling like a wrung-out sponge. Appropriate bedding materials include peat moss, shredded newspaper, coconut coir, or the material they were shipped in.
Maintaining a suitable temperature range is paramount for short-term survival and long-term health. Most common worm species thrive in cool conditions, generally between 55 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and must be kept out of direct sunlight. The container should have proper ventilation to ensure adequate airflow, which is necessary for their respiration.
For worms intended for bait or temporary holding, minimal feeding is required, as they can subsist on the nutrients within the bedding for a short time. If keeping them for more than a few days, a small amount of damp coffee grounds or powdered worm food can be sprinkled on the surface. Overfeeding should be avoided, as uneaten food can rot and create an acidic environment that is harmful.