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Post by admin on Apr 28, 2015 15:32:13 GMT -8
I don't do much of this but the other day I tried it and had a disaster. I put the caterpillars with some host plant in a plastic container with a lid, with air holes. Then put the container in an insulated box with a small frozen gel pack, separating it from the gel pack with a wad of newspaper. Shipped Priority Mail (3-day). Recipient says the whole interior of the cup turned wet from condensation and two-thirds of the worms died. Stupid me.
So, I'd like to hear from Forum members your method for doing this, considering summer is coming in my area and it's gonna get hot. And I'd like to still use Priority Mail since it is so much cheaper than Overnight mail - but maybe this is where I went wrong.
Maybe I don't need a gel pack if I use just an insulated box?
Please share your advice. How would you do this? Thanks.
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Deleted Member
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Post by Deleted on Apr 28, 2015 18:01:47 GMT -8
Clark,
This is how the guy I used to buy tarantulas from shipped the specimens. This method should work with any insects not just arachnids. He used plastic vials with small air holes. A little damp paper towel inside the vials. These were put in plastic deli cups with larger air holes. These were put in a small ventilated cardboard box. Around the box was shredded newspaper and and around that was a thick 1/2 -3/4 sheet of Styrofoam on all sides. This was all carefully packed into the shipping box. I think insulation and cushion is the key. I never received a dead specimen from him. He also shipped overnight. No exceptions. Hope this helps
Joe
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Post by eurytides on Apr 28, 2015 18:59:27 GMT -8
I think Clark's issue is that the larvae are dying because of the condensation...whether it's mould/infection or small larvae drowning is not clear from the post. So "insulation and cushion" may not resolve this. Perhaps some paper towel or something else absorbant to soak up any condensation that develops??? I have never shipped live larvae before and am curious what more experienced members have to say.
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Post by obewan on Apr 28, 2015 19:07:13 GMT -8
I think wrapping the FP in damp paper towel is best. Most FP only last 2-3 days wet OR dry.
That would reduce the amount of moisture available...and yes, extra toweling is a good plan too!
Overnight or at least priority helps too...
obe
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Post by admin on May 2, 2015 20:06:53 GMT -8
I think wrapping the FP in damp paper towel is best. Most FP only last 2-3 days wet OR dry. That would reduce the amount of moisture available...and yes, extra toweling is a good plan too! Overnight or at least priority helps too... obe What is 'FP'? |
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Post by Adam Cotton on May 3, 2015 5:41:18 GMT -8
Food Plant  Adam. |
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