How centipede farmers can manage the hibernation period well

In the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River, centipedes enter hibernation in November each year. At this time, the centipedes' outdoor activity gradually decreases, their food intake also gradually decreases, and they gradually move deeper into the rearing soil, building their own hibernation nests in a suitable soil layer. When the temperature drops further, the centipedes then enter a completely hibernating state, neither eating nor moving. The rearing management during this period is as follows.

1. Feeding

According to their feeding situation, gradually reduce the feed, and it is best to mix into the feed enzyme preparations, yeast tablets, etc. that help digestion, so as to avoid indigestion.

2. Prevent the rearing temperature from fluctuating sharply

In the early stage of hibernation, it is best to close doors and windows every night, and open doors and windows briefly at warm noon. When the temperature changes too abruptly, appropriate heating can be used to offset the impact. After the centipedes have completely entered hibernation, excessive cooling of the rearing shed should also be prevented. During snowy and freezing seasons, absolutely avoid the rearing soil freezing; straw can be spread over the rearing soil, and foam boards and other insulating objects can be added as cover.

3. Maintain humidity

Although the physiological metabolic function of centipedes during hibernation is low, because the winter air is dry, especially the air in heated rearing sheds is even drier, the moisture in the rearing soil easily evaporates, which can easily make the small environment around the hibernating centipedes too dry and cause loss of body moisture, thereby causing the hibernating centipedes to dry up. Therefore, during hibernation, close attention should be paid to adjusting the humidity of the rearing soil, and the humidity of the rearing soil should be maintained at 15%——20%.

4. Prevent rodent damage and invasion

Because hibernating centipedes have no ability to resist or escape, they are easily attacked by rodents. Therefore, the rearing shed should have tightly closed doors and windows, and rodent-proof devices should be installed at entrances and exits where rats may pass, strictly preventing rats from burrowing into the rearing soil.

5. Management at the end of hibernation

When the centipedes are about to awaken from hibernation, the covering on the surface layer of the rearing soil should be removed in time, so as to prevent the centipedes from burrowing into it after waking. At the same time, do a good job of cleaning and sanitation in the rearing shed, thoroughly disinfect the exercise area, feeding utensils, drinking water facilities, etc., and make preparations for the next year's rearing.