Guppies

[Eloanne]

Hi there,

I have six 2011 babies (4 females and 2 males). The females are very big now and eat large worms and amphibians. I tried some frozen fish last month but they use to eat live food so it's seem... just no more interesting for them. I tried pinkies rats too (rubbed with fish) but they hate it. I don't know why. I have no problem with my females, but the two males are SOOO difficults.

When they are born, I had to force them to eat, because they refused food for two months. Now, they are very smaller than their sisters. So they can't eat amphibians even if they would like it. Only little worms are good, but they won't eat them when girls eating too. So I have to take them, put them in another box and give them a plate with worms AND dirt (they won't worms if there isn't dirt).

I would like to try guppies. Is that guppies are good for all garters? Have you some advice for me? How can I feed my babies in a balanced way?

Thank you for your help!

[guidofatherof5]

Guppies as a rule are safe and a good food source when used as part of a varied diet.
Are the males eating worms? If they are worms are a very good food source . Guppies would help to vary the diet.
I would be amiss if I didn't say something about feeding amphibians. They usually carry a parasite load. In my opinion it would be best to find a safer food.

[Eloanne]

Yes, my males eating worms. Little worms only for the moment and only that. I'll try guppies in a few day, I'll tell you if they eat well.
For amphibians, I read something about the parasite, but I also read that worms were not anought for a healthy diet: this leads a lack of calcium (it is real?). This is why I would like to vary the diet. Can you advice me another food than worms?

[guidofatherof5]

Worms that live in calcium rich soil are rich in calcium.
Have you considered using a calcium supplement and dusting the worms?
I would continue feeding worms. They are a good food item.
I feed a lot of worms and it is the main food item for my wild population.
Amazon.com: Rep-Cal Reptile Calcium Powder with D3: Pet Supplies (http://www.amazon.com/Rep-Cal-Reptile-Calcium-Powder-D3/dp/B00061UWJM/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1347213676&sr=8-4&keywords=rep-cal+calcium)

[-MARWOLAETH-]

You could dip a worm in some calcium and vitamin D3 powder.Start of with just a little powder and progressively add more dust to the worm until they will take a worm that is half dipped in powder.I'm not sure what brands of reptile calcium supplements are on the market in Canada but some of the Canadian members could recommend some for you.