How To Make Paper Worm Bedding For Nightcrawlers

Nightcrawlers are a common type of worm used for fishing bait and composting. They are easy to care for and can be kept in a variety of containers, including plastic bins, wooden boxes, and even old tires. One of the most important aspects of caring for nightcrawlers is providing them with a suitable bedding material. Paper is a popular choice for nightcrawler bedding because it is absorbent, retains moisture, and provides a dark, humid environment that worms prefer. Additionally, paper is easy to find and inexpensive.

Materials Needed:

Newspaper or shredded paper
Water
Container for the worms

Instructions:

Shred the paper. You can use a paper shredder or simply tear the paper into small pieces by hand. The smaller the pieces of paper, the better they will absorb moisture and retain it.
Soak the paper in water. Fill a container with enough water to cover the shredded paper. Let the paper soak for at least 30 minutes, or overnight.
Drain the paper. Drain the water from the paper using a colander or strainer. Squeeze out any excess water from the paper with your hands.
Place the paper in the worm container. Add the damp paper to the bottom of the worm container. The paper should be about 2-3 inches deep.
Add the worms. Gently place the nightcrawlers on top of the paper. The worms will burrow down into the paper and make it their home.

Tips for Maintaining Paper Worm Bedding:

Keep the paper moist. The paper should be damp, but not soggy. If the paper becomes too dry, the worms will have difficulty burrowing and may become dehydrated. To keep the paper moist, mist it with water every few days.
Turn the paper regularly. Every few weeks, turn the paper over so that the bottom layers of paper come to the top. This will help to aerate the paper and prevent it from becoming compacted.
Replace the paper every few months. The paper will eventually become soiled and need to be replaced. Replace the paper every 2-3 months, or more often if it becomes heavily soiled.

By following these tips, you can create a suitable bedding environment for your nightcrawlers that will help them to thrive.