Waxworms are the common name of the larvae of the wax moth (the name is used of two related species, the lesser wax moth (Achroia grisella) and the greater wax moth (Galleria mellonella)). They are used extensively as food in the pet industry — mostly due their high fat content, easy breeding, and their ability to survive weeks at cold temperatures. They are medium white caterpillars with black tipped feet and small black heads. In the wild they live as nest parasites in bee colonies and eat beeswax, thus the name, but when used in captivity they can go long times without eating. Beekeepers consider waxworms pests.