Feeding Wax Worms (how many should I feed)

[Romeyrider]

I fed my new BTS wax worms for the first time and he loved them. This was his first time eating live prey. Anyway he is only about 3 weeks old and was not sure how much to give him... I ended up feeding him 11 but he still wanted more. Should I keep feeding him until he stops or can I over feed him? I know wax worms are not that rich in nutrients but I figured it was a good first start for live food. Other than that he eats his skink chow everyday which he only takes a few bites of... How much of that should he eat? It's a mixture of dog food and baby food. Plus I have not seen him drink any water yet. Should I soak him for a little while just to make sure he isn't dehydrated? He's not acting like it though! I have only had him since Monday and he has proved to be a really fun little guy!

[Susann]

As long as you use them for occasional feedings or treats rather than a staple protein source you should be fine. They are high in fat, and don't have a good calcium:phosphorus ratio which, if fed too much, can result in problems with calcium absorption over time.
I'm sure 11 is no problem as I understand waxworms are rather small, but personally I would think of them as a snack/treat instead of as a meal.

Here is a link to a food chart with tons of good info on what to feed, how often, and even how much:
http://bluetongueskinks.net/foodchart.html

If he starts to get picky about what he eats, or starts rejecting meals, just start stretching his meals to feeding every other, every third day.

He shouldn't need to be soaked unless you start seeing problems with shed not coming off on its own; you may not have seen him drink, but is likely getting his drinks while you are away, or if he's getting enough liquid from his food, he may not need to drink that often. As long as you know he can easily get to the water, I'm sure he's fine. If you're worried you could try putting him into his water bowl when you are putting him back into his tank --if you ever take him out that is.

[Romeyrider]

Thanks so much Susan!