Silkies Dieing

[dank7oo]

Quick questions ... i have about 50 large silkies, and today i noticed some began to shrink and turn light brown hear the head ... anyone know what this is caused by and how to stop it?

Jason

[Bartman]

I dont know what the browning is but make sure they are not in the dark, because they will cacoon (i had a bunch of silks and they did the same thing)..also make sure they are in a warm room..not to cold..even more then room temp is good. Also make sure you are giving them enough food..they need food to make sure they are eating almost all the time. Good luck!

[dank7oo]

yeah ... they are being taken care of fine ... its weird - LOL

[ChristinaM]

Originally posted by dank7oo
Quick questions ... i have about 50 large silkies, and today i noticed some began to shrink and turn light brown hear the head ... anyone know what this is caused by and how to stop it?

Jason

two things:

-could be they are getting ready to cocoon ( are they weaving silk?)

-could be not enough food......

hth

[ChristinaM]

oh, btw: your cham's will enjoy the moths that emmerge from the cocoons as well.....so definately do not think they are a waste, keep em :)

[ICULIZARD]

Were you washing your hands with soap and water before picking any of the Silkworms up? Silkworms are very sensitive to the oils on your hands and this may explain why you are having problems. We always use plastic tweazers to pick them up.....and we keep hundreds at a time with no problems. Just a thought.

:)

ICULIZARD

[chamitch]

most of mine died too. it sucked

[dank7oo]

mine havent died yet and seem to be getting better

Jason