{"product_id":"pet-connection-dried-mealworms-for-wild-birds","title":"Pet Connection Dried Mealworms - Premium Wild Bird Food","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"markdown markdown-main-panel stronger enable-updated-hr-color\" id=\"model-response-message-contentr_7ef11c06a6911577\" aria-live=\"polite\" aria-busy=\"false\" dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"markdown markdown-main-panel stronger enable-updated-hr-color\" id=\"model-response-message-contentr_674269733f9fa292\" aria-live=\"polite\" aria-busy=\"false\" dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv dir=\"ltr\" aria-busy=\"false\" aria-live=\"polite\" id=\"model-response-message-contentr_d1d84c76b87f4b29\" class=\"markdown markdown-main-panel stronger enable-updated-hr-color\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-path-to-node=\"1\"\u003ePet Connection Dried Mealworms - Premium Wild Bird Food\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"2\"\u003ePet Connection Dried Mealworms are a premium, high-protein treat designed to attract a beautiful variety of insect-eating birds to your garden. Loved by robins, tits, thrushes, starlings, and blackbirds, these nutrient-dense mealworms provide essential energy that closely mimics a wild bird's natural diet. They are a fantastic feeding option to support your local wildlife across Ireland \u0026amp; UK.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"3\"\u003eWe are deeply committed to sustainability and reducing environmental waste. That is why our \u003cb data-index-in-node=\"92\" data-path-to-node=\"3\"\u003e100g pack\u003c\/b\u003e comes in a handy, sturdy cardboard box with a fully recyclable lid, while our bulk \u003cb data-index-in-node=\"185\" data-path-to-node=\"3\"\u003e500g pack\u003c\/b\u003e is packaged in a 100% compostable plastic bag. This ensures your garden visitors get the highest quality nutrition without leaving a lasting footprint on the planet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-path-to-node=\"4\"\u003e🚨 Essential Summer Guide: RSPB \"Feed Seasonally, Feed Safely\"\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"5\"\u003eThe RSPB, the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO), and conservation scientists have updated their national wild bird feeding guidelines to combat the spread of \u003ci data-index-in-node=\"160\" data-path-to-node=\"5\"\u003eTrichomonosis\u003c\/i\u003e—a severe disease causing major declines in British Irish finch populations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-path-to-node=\"6\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"6,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"6,0,0\"\u003eThe Summer Seed Pause (1 May – 31 October):\u003c\/b\u003e To prevent birds from crowding and spreading disease, the RSPB officially advises \u003cb data-index-in-node=\"126\" data-path-to-node=\"6,0,0\"\u003epausing all seed mixes and peanuts\u003c\/b\u003e during the summer and autumn months.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"6,1,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"6,1,0\"\u003eThe Safe Summer Alternative:\u003c\/b\u003e Because finches rarely eat insects, the RSPB recommends switching your feeding stations exclusively to small, controlled amounts of \u003cb data-index-in-node=\"161\" data-path-to-node=\"6,1,0\"\u003emealworms\u003c\/b\u003e, suet, or fat balls. This keeps vital animal protein available for growing chicks without creating disease hotspots.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"6,2,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"6,2,0\"\u003eRetire Flat Surfaces:\u003c\/b\u003e Research shows disease transmission spikes on flat surfaces where birds step in and regurgitate food. Homeowners are advised to stop using flat bird tables, opting strictly for hanging styles or targeted ground trays that are cleaned weekly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-path-to-node=\"7\"\u003e💧 Why You MUST Soak Dried Mealworms in Summer\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"8\"\u003eA very common myth among bird lovers is that adult birds know what is safe and will only feed juicy live food to their chicks unless they are desperate. However, scientific research shows this is not the case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"9\"\u003eDuring the frantic spring and summer breeding seasons, parent birds are under immense stress to find thousands of insects a day. When they find an open tray of dried mealworms, their instincts see an absolute jackpot of protein. To save time, they will repeatedly gather beakfuls of dry mealworms and take them straight back to the nest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"10\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThis presents two critical dangers to delicate nestlings:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-path-to-node=\"11\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"11,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"11,0,0\"\u003eFatal Dehydration:\u003c\/b\u003e Wild chicks get 100% of their moisture from the juicy insects their parents bring—they do not drink water directly. Dry mealworms act like a sponge in a chick’s tiny stomach, absorbing the scarce moisture already inside them and causing rapid, fatal dehydration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"11,1,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"11,1,0\"\u003eImpacted Stomachs:\u003c\/b\u003e A chick's digestive tract is incredibly fragile. The brittle, crunchy outer shell (chitin) of a completely dry mealworm can easily become impacted in a chick's stomach or crop, blocking them from digesting any other food.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"12\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"12\"\u003eThe Golden Rule:\u003c\/b\u003e Always soak your dried mealworms in warm water for 15-30 minutes during the spring and summer breeding season. This turns a potential hazard into a soft, plump, and life-saving juicy superfood for the next generation of garden birds! Soaked mealworms may spoil quickly, so only put enough food out for 1-2 days at a time. Simply soak them in warm water and then strain them with a sieve. (In autumn and winter, they can be safely fed completely dry straight from the bag).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-path-to-node=\"13\"\u003eKey Features 🐦\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-path-to-node=\"14\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"14,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"14,0,0\"\u003eRSPB Summer-Approved:\u003c\/b\u003e Perfect for continuing to support garden wildlife during the May–October seed pause.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"14,1,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"14,1,0\"\u003eHigh-Protein Nutrition:\u003c\/b\u003e Packed with essential proteins and fats to support bird health, feather moulting, and fledgling growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"14,2,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"14,2,0\"\u003e100% Eco-Friendly Packaging:\u003c\/b\u003e Zero single-use plastic. Choose between recyclable cardboard (100g) or fully compostable bags (500g).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"14,3,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"14,3,0\"\u003eVersatile Use:\u003c\/b\u003e Feed dry during winter or soak in warm water during spring and summer to support nesting chicks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-path-to-node=\"15\"\u003eProduct Specifications 📏\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable data-path-to-node=\"16\"\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFeature\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e100g Pack Details\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e500g Pack Details\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"16,1,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"16,1,0,0\"\u003eBrand\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"16,1,1,0\"\u003ePet Connection\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"16,1,2,0\"\u003ePet Connection\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"16,2,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"16,2,0,0\"\u003ePackaging\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"16,2,1,0\"\u003eSturdy Cardboard Box \u0026amp; Recyclable Lid\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"16,2,2,0\"\u003e100% Compostable Bag\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"16,3,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"16,3,0,0\"\u003eBarcode (EAN)\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"16,3,1,0\"\u003e5060565877313\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"16,3,2,0\"\u003e5060565877320\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"16,4,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"16,4,0,0\"\u003eComposition\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"16,4,1,0\"\u003e100% Dried Mealworms\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"16,4,2,0\"\u003e100% Dried Mealworms\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-path-to-node=\"17\"\u003eFrequently Asked Questions (FAQs) ❓\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"18\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"18\"\u003eWhy should I stop feeding seeds and switch to mealworms in the summer?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"18\"\u003eThe latest scientific guidelines from the RSPB state that seed feeders cause wild birds to crowd together, accelerating the spread of the fatal finch disease, Trichomonosis. Switching to mealworms protects vulnerable species like Greenfinches, as they naturally ignore insect feeds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"18\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"354\" data-path-to-node=\"18\"\u003eHow exactly do I prepare these for garden birds in the summer?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"18\"\u003eSimply place the required amount of mealworms in a shallow dish, cover with warm water, and leave for 15 to 20 minutes. This rehydrates the mealworms, adding crucial moisture for young chicks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"18\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"610\" data-path-to-node=\"18\"\u003eHow should I dispose of the 500g packaging?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"18\"\u003eThe bulk 500g bag is made from fully compostable plant-based materials. You can drop it straight into your home compost bin or your local council food waste bin where it will decompose naturally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"18\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"850\" data-path-to-node=\"18\"\u003eCan I feed mealworms completely dry during the winter?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"18\"\u003eYes. During the autumn and winter months when birds are no longer nesting, adult birds can easily digest completely dry mealworms. They are an excellent, high-energy fat and protein supplement during freezing weather.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-path-to-node=\"19\"\u003eWhy Shop With Us 🛒\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-path-to-node=\"20\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"20,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"20,0,0\"\u003e🚀 Fast, reliable delivery\u003c\/b\u003e throughout Ireland \u0026amp; UK.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"20,1,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"20,1,0\"\u003e☘️ Based in the North of Ireland\u003c\/b\u003e — no tariffs or duties on orders to Ireland \u0026amp; UK or EU.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"20,2,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"20,2,0\"\u003e⭐ Handpicked, high-quality products\u003c\/b\u003e your garden wildlife will love.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"20,3,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"20,3,0\"\u003e📞 Expert customer support\u003c\/b\u003e from passionate nature enthusiasts.\u003ccode class=\"code-container formatted ng-tns-c1707731811-281\" data-test-id=\"code-content\" role=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003c\/code\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\u003c!----\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Pet Connection","offers":[{"title":"100g (750ml)","offer_id":56902019842426,"sku":"MW100","price":1.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"500g","offer_id":56902019875194,"sku":"MW500","price":6.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0844\/4792\/0424\/files\/Pet-food-supplies_31.jpg?v=1780054396","url":"https:\/\/www.petconnection.ie\/products\/pet-connection-dried-mealworms-for-wild-birds","provider":"petconnection.ie","version":"1.0","type":"link"}