Just a little bit of background knowledge…
The Phasmatodea is an order of insects whose members include various names known as stick insects, stick bugs, walking sticks or bug sticks. Although they have multiple names, therefore, they are generally referred to as phasmatodeans, phasmids or ghost insects. Stick insects often thrive the most in grasslands and forest habitats as they feed on leaves. Motionless as they are nocturnal, spending most of their day hiding under leaves. Due to the level of care that these insects require, we believe that they make the perfect first reptile pet.
Captive Care:
The general care for a stick insect is very basic. We recommend an Exo Terra Terrarium to start their habitational needs, at a size of 30x30x30cm. This is the perfect size to allow your stick insect to hide and exercise freely. The temperature of their terrarium should be between 20°C and 25°C. To sustain the temperature of the terrarium at a steady heat, use a heat mat and a Microclimate Matstat. Ensure that the inside of the terrarium is filled with green bramble and branches, leaves and hiding opportunities to allow your stick insect to hide and climb freely.
A substrate that we recommend for your stick insect is Exo Terra Rain Forest substrate. It is also important to spray your terrarium at least 1-2 times a day to increase humidity for your insect.
Feeding:
The stick insects are easy to feed as they eat bramble, we recommend blackberry bramble. However, due to the easy-care please ensure that the bramble is parasite-free prior to giving this to your stick insect. Also, make sure that the end of the bramble is in water.
Cleaning:
Please ensure to give your stick insects vivarium a full clean once a month. Removing all branches and hides, removing and replacing all substrate and replacing with fresh. Although, you should also perform daily spot checks to remove any dead leaves etc.
