So my girls love the dried mealworms, but my wallet does not, so I decided to research raising my own. After trolling around on here for information I decided to take the plunge. I got some live mealies from a pet store last night, and got my wheat bran from the feed store today. I got the old aquarium cleaned out, and put some wheat bran in. A little while later I noticed a little bug. Then two little bugs. Then a little worm (not meal worm). I looked into the bag of wheat bran and it had tiny little grain beetles and larvae in it. I called the feed store, they said to bring it back for a refund (they didn't have any more in stock). The guy also told me the bag was expired, so it was good that I brought it back. I've only found a few bugs in my colony, and I think since it was just at the top of the bag there won't be too many, but when I see them I just take them out and drown the suckers. I started with 2000 mealies, and when I went back to the feed store I asked if they sell them. They said no, but people ask for live ones all the time. And when they found out I'm going to be raising them, they wanted me to let them know when I get my colony up and running because they either want to carry them from me or have my information to give to customers looking for live mealies. So what started as a way to provide cheap, healthy treats to my flock could turn into a little side business. I'll try to get some pics posted tomorrow, but since I'm so new at this, feel free to chime in with any advice!