Stick insects are fascinating, gentle creatures that make excellent pets for both adults and children. With their incredible camouflage and relatively low maintenance needs, they’re especially popular as a first time pet. This guide will walk you through the basics of keeping these unique insects happy and healthy in a domestic setting.
Basic Information
Stick Insects (Phasmatodea) are fascinating, low-maintenance invertebrates best known for their incredible camouflage and gentle nature. Commonly kept species in Australia include the Australian Spiny Leaf Insect and other captive-bred stick insects. They are arboreal, slow-moving and entirely herbivorous, making them ideal for beginners, classrooms and families. Most species reach 10–15 cm in length and live for 6–18 months depending on species and conditions.
Essential Supplies
Secure Enclosure
A tall, well-ventilated enclosure is essential, as stick insects need vertical space to climb and moult successfully. Mesh or ventilated plastic enclosures are ideal. Lids must be secure to prevent escape while allowing airflow.
Substrate
Use paper towel, coco fibre, or soil-based substrates to help maintain light humidity and make cleaning easy. The substrate should remain slightly damp but never wet to prevent mould growth.
Branches & Climbing Structures
Provide sturdy, vertical branches that extend close to the top of the enclosure. These are essential for successful moulting, as stick insects hang upside down to shed their exoskeleton.
Food Supply (Fresh Leaves)
A constant supply of appropriate fresh leaves such as eucalyptus, blackberry, rose or privet (species dependent) is essential. Leaves must be pesticide-free.
Water & Misting Bottle
Stick insects drink droplets from leaves rather than bowls. A spray bottle is required to lightly mist the enclosure and foliage.
Cleaning Supplies
Paper towel, spare substrate, and reptile- or insect-safe cleaning tools are needed to maintain hygiene and reduce mould.
Housing
Stick insects should be housed in a tall enclosure that allows them to fully stretch out during moulting. As a general guide, enclosure height should be at least three times the length of the insect. Multiple individuals can usually be housed together if space and food are sufficient. The enclosure should be placed in a quiet area away from direct sunlight and temperature extremes.
Environment
Stick insects prefer mild, stable temperatures between 20–26°C. Most species tolerate typical household temperatures and do not require additional heating. Humidity should be moderate, achieved through light misting once daily or every second day depending on species and conditions. Good ventilation is essential to prevent stagnant air and mould. Lighting should follow a natural day/night cycle, with indirect ambient light sufficient—no UVB is required.
Diet & Feeding
Stick insects are strict herbivores and feed exclusively on fresh leaves. Common food plants include eucalyptus, blackberry, rose and privet, depending on species. Leaves should be washed and placed in water-filled containers or clipped securely inside the enclosure to remain fresh. Food must be replaced as it dries out or becomes soiled. Stick insects do not require supplements if fed appropriate plant species.
Behaviour & Handling
Stick insects are calm, slow-moving and generally tolerant of gentle handling. They should be allowed to walk onto hands rather than being grabbed. Handling should be kept minimal, especially during moulting periods, as they are very delicate at this time. Dropping a stick insect can cause serious injury, so handling should always be done close to a surface.
Common Health Issues
Stick insects are hardy when housed correctly, but problems can occur if environmental conditions are unsuitable. Close observation is important, particularly during moulting.
Failed or Incomplete Moulting
This is the most common issue and is usually caused by low humidity, insufficient vertical space, or disturbance during moulting. Signs include stuck limbs, deformed bodies or insects trapped in shed skin. Maintaining correct humidity and providing tall climbing branches helps prevent this.
Dehydration
Dehydration may occur if misting is insufficient or leaves dry out too quickly. Symptoms include lethargy, shrivelled appearance or reduced feeding. Regular misting and fresh foliage help maintain hydration.
Mould Growth
Excess moisture and poor ventilation can lead to mould on substrate or leaves. Mould can be harmful if ingested. Remove affected material immediately and improve airflow.
Injury from Falls
Stick insects are fragile and may be injured if they fall during handling or moulting. Ensure enclosures are appropriately sized and handle insects gently and infrequently.
Health, Hygiene & Safety
Spot-clean droppings and old leaves regularly. Replace substrate as needed to prevent mould and odours. Wash hands before and after handling insects or enclosure contents. Avoid using chemicals, aerosols or cleaning sprays near the enclosure, as stick insects are highly sensitive to toxins.
Record Keeping
Keeping simple records is recommended, particularly for breeding or educational setups. Record moulting dates, food plant changes, enclosure cleaning, and any health concerns. Tracking moults helps predict growth stages and identify potential issues early.
Holiday Care
Stick insects can be left for short periods if fresh food is supplied in advance. For longer absences, arrange for a carer to replace leaves and lightly mist the enclosure as required. Written care instructions are recommended, especially for inexperienced carers.
Transportation
When transporting stick insects, use a well-ventilated container lined with paper towel and containing a small branch for grip. Transport should be brief, gentle and kept at stable temperatures. Avoid shaking or exposing insects to heat or direct sunlight.
Compatibility with Other Animals
Stick insects are typically very social and should be kept in at least pairs, or small groups. However, should not be housed with other insect species or animals that may disturb or prey on them. Keep enclosures away from pets such as cats, dogs and birds to reduce stress and risk of injury.
Enrichment and Natural Behaviours
To support your insect’s natural behaviours, provide plenty of climbing branches and rotate the types of leaves they are offered. You’ll notice them gently swaying back and forth, which is a clever defense mechanism that mimics the movement of twigs in the wind. Watching them groom their antennae or interact with their environment can be surprisingly relaxing and rewarding.
Fun Facts
Some species of stick insects can reproduce without males in a process called parthenogenesis. They are masters of disguise and rely on their camouflage to avoid predators. Their gentle swaying motion, even when still, is designed to mimic the subtle movement of leaves or twigs in a breeze—an impressive example of evolution in action!
Here at Birdsville, we typically have many stick insects to choose from! Keep an eye out on our Facebook and Instagram for stick insects for sale.
