#leech facts

Fun facts time! There are 3 main types of leeches. Blood sucking leeches actually make up a very small percentage of all the leeches out there. The other two types are decomposer/scavenger types that feed off decaying matter at the bottom of rivers and swamps, and predatory leeches like the ribbon leech that hunt and kill small creatures like minnows and snails.

Leeches are hermaphroditic and, in the case of the leeches I keep, will breed with each other or asexually and produce a cocoon of anywhere from 5~7 leeches, give or take a few. From what I've read while they aren't incredibly likely to breed in captivity, given the correct conditions they can and will, preferring areas of moss or damp land areas.

Hi! I’m glad to answer this question! Never get your leeches from leech.com or it’s affiliated companies. They are abusive to the leeches, unsafe for self feeding, and violently overpriced.

As far as I’m aware, the only place in the US to obtain leeches (due to covid) is North American Biopharma. They’re very quick to respond and ship out their leeches as quickly as possible for the leech’s safety. They’re also safe to allow to feed on you. They only ship out Hirudo Verbana, so they don’t have Buffalo leeches.

I heavily suggest taking a look at @plaguedocboi s post about raising leeches before you buy any!

If you’re asking where I raise them, they are currently in a large mason jar! I need to get them a larger container. Make sure their container is escape proof and avoid water filters if you can. Their container should be wider than your largest leech is (on average, because they streeeeeetch) long. It should also be double that in height for the water unless you have just fed them. Reduce water to the point that they can’t paddle swim for around a week after feeding. This is so that they avoid getting sick from swimming around. Be prepared with a spare container or two (depending on the number you have) in case you need to feed them separately.