Halloween DealsAmazon USHalloween week deals: useful picks before month-endAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsWindows FixRecommendedWindows errors stealing your time? Find the fix fastScan stability, cleanup and performance issues.Fix NowHalloween DealsAmazon USOctober picks are moving - compare before checkoutAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
FREEDOM251

Freedom251 › Blog › animal care

How to Keep Stick Insects as Pets: Habitat, Food, and Care

By Freedom251 Team · · 4 min read

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

To care for a stick insect, first identify its species: temperature, humidity, food plants and other needs differ. Then provide a secure, well-ventilated enclosure with enough unobstructed height to moult, fresh leaves confirmed safe for that species, and moisture without persistent wetness. Handle gently, check for eggs when cleaning, and never release pet insects or cage waste outdoors.

Choose an enclosure with room to moult

Stick insects hang vertically while shedding their old skin. If they cannot hang freely, a moult can go wrong, so measure usable vertical clearance rather than the enclosure’s outside dimensions alone. The Amateur Entomologists’ Society (AES) suggests a cage about three times the adult insect’s length in height. Treat that as a starting point, not a universal minimum: species, branch placement and the number of insects affect how much clear space is available.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

The Australian Museum gives a 90 cm-high enclosure with a 60 cm² base as an example for up to 12 insects. That is the museum’s example, not a general stocking rule. Make sure branches and other furnishings do not block the hanging space.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Check airflow, access and escape gaps

Mesh or mesh-sided enclosures can provide ventilation. At the same time, openings must be small enough to contain young nymphs, and the door must close securely. Choose a design with surfaces you can wash and a door wide enough to remove and replace the container holding food branches. Avoid direct sunlight and overheating. Do not add heat or seal up the cage without species-specific guidance.

#1 Best Overall
Acrylic Jumping Spider Habitat, Insect Terrarium, Bug Enclosure, Praying Mantis Habitat, Frog Enclosure
  • 【Acrylic Reptile Terrarium】Our small reptile cage measures 7.87" x 4.72" x 4.33", perfect size for kinds of baby reptiles or other small animals, providing sufficient room for reptiles pets to move around.
  • 【360 Degree View】Our large breeding tank is all-round transparent, it's convenient to observe your slithery friends in the box and feed them in time. The top is clam-shell design, easy to open and close.
  • 【Easy to Install】Tear off the protective film on the surface at first and the acrylic tarantula enclosure requires a simple installation , the rubber bands do well in holding everything together. It's also easy to disassemble when not use for saving storage space.
  • 【Perfect Design】This reptile breeding box tarantula enclosure is designed with ventilation holes on the two sides, providing the reptiles with fresh air. And the locking handle keeps your pet safe.
  • 【Reptile Tank for Insects】Provide a perfect home and a warm habitat for your small reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates. Ideal for spiders, lizard, small turtles, snails, frogs, snakes, tarantulas, hermit crab or any other insects.

Match temperature and humidity to the species

There is no single temperature or humidity setting for all stick insects. AES says many species do well around 25°C, while the commonly kept Indian stick insect and some relatives tolerate normal household temperatures of 17°C and above. AES also contrasts species suited to relatively open cages with others that need a nearly enclosed setup and around 80% relative humidity. These are examples of variation, not universal targets.

Identify the insect and consult care instructions for that species before using a heater or reducing ventilation. A setup that is too cool, too hot or too damp for the species can create avoidable problems.

Rank #2
Critter Keeper with Handle, Easy to Observe, Terrarium for Bugs, Fish, Lizards, Crawfish, Frogs, or Snakes, Insect cage, Made in Japan (1pc)
  • 🐸 The highly transparent polystyrene body is ideal for observing living creatures.
  • 🐜 The breathable mesh lid has a transparent sub lid that can be observed from above.
  • 🦋 Works both wet and dry. Just the right size for observing critter.
  • 🐠 For observation of insects, frogs, fish, lizards, crayfish and snakes.
  • 🦎 High quality Japanese made by Nakaya Chemical Industry.

Feed fresh leaves verified as safe

Leaves are the staple food, but not every stick insect eats the same plants. AES says many accept bramble, also called blackberry, and other Rubus plants, while noting exceptions. The Australian Museum says commonly kept home and classroom phasmids eat eucalyptus, but cautions that young eucalyptus leaves can have higher oil levels that are harder to digest. Confirm the plant against species-specific guidance rather than assuming a familiar leaf is suitable.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Collect and prepare branches carefully

  • Collect only where pesticide spraying and pollution are not concerns, and check that gathering foliage is permitted.
  • Shake branches to dislodge other animals before placing them in the enclosure.
  • Stand cut stems in water to keep leaves fresh. Secure the opening so insects cannot fall into the water and drown.
  • The Australian Museum says branches may last about a week when fresh and the water is changed regularly. Replace them sooner if leaves wilt or deteriorate.
  • Do not feed foliage if you cannot rule out pesticide exposure.

Provide water without making the cage persistently wet

Many phasmids drink droplets from leaves. The Australian Museum describes daily misting with a spray bottle, but the right amount depends on the species and enclosure. AES describes humidity needs ranging from relatively open conditions to high humidity for some species. Do not apply a fixed humidity percentage or misting schedule across species.

Rank #3
Exo Terra Faunarium Small Plastic Reptile Terrarium & Transport Container
  • VERSATILE TEMPORARY HABITAT: Ideal for transporting, housing, or quarantining reptiles, amphibians, spiders, insects, and other small animals; Great as a temporary reptile enclosure, feeder insect container, or travel terrarium
  • CLEAR 360° VIEWING DESIGN: Transparent plastic construction provides excellent visibility for observing pets, feeder insects, and terrarium inhabitants while allowing quick health checks and easy monitoring
  • SECURE & WELL-VENTILATED: Features a ventilated snap-lock lid that promotes airflow while helping keep animals safely contained during transport, cleaning, feeding, or enclosure maintenance
  • LIGHTWEIGHT & EASY TO CARRY: Durable plastic construction makes this portable reptile carrier easy to move between habitats, veterinary visits, classroom demonstrations, breeding projects, and reptile shows
  • IDEAL FOR REPTILE KEEPERS: Perfect for geckos, small lizards, spiders, tarantulas, frogs, salamanders, feeder insects, and other small pets; Includes one Exo Terra Small Faunarium suitable for temporary housing and transport applications

Keep airflow adequate and avoid persistent wetness: the Australian Museum warns that excess moisture can encourage harmful mould. If you see mould or surfaces stay wet, remove affected debris and adjust moisture while maintaining the species’ needs.

Make moulting and handling safer

Leave clear vertical space for the insect to hang while shedding, and avoid crowding the enclosure. Handle only when necessary: rough handling can injure a stick insect. The Australian Museum recommends letting it walk onto a flat hand instead of grabbing it; the RSPCA also stresses very delicate handling. AES notes that a lost limb may regrow at a later moult, but only if the insect has another moult remaining.

Rank #4
MYGIIKAKA Jumping Spider Enclosure Accessories, Tarantula Spider Box, Bug Cage, Praying Mantis Habitat Enclosure, Snail Insect Terrarium, Caterpillar Habitat (3x3x6 inch)
  • Multiple Species: Our MYGIIKAKA Insect Terrarium offers a 98% clear view. It is designed for arboreal spiders and species such as jumping spiders, praying mantis and snail enclosures. It is perfect for watching your mini world in vivid detail.
  • Magical Magnetic Doors: Featuring double magnetic closure doors. This thoughtful design ensures that you can easily access the interior for cleaning, feeding, or rearranging decorations without disturbing the reptile habitat you've created.
  • Pre-Assembled & Breezy Ventilation: The spider terrarium with seamless acrylic plates guarantees no insect escapes. Equipped with side and back vents, it keeps your insect pals healthy and comfy in their acrylic abode.
  • Mini Spider Cage: This mini bug habitat fits anywhere and is perfect for creating micro landscapes and housing small insects. It is ideal for kids and adults to explore nature up close.
  • Durable & Easy Clean: The small reptile enclosure made of tough acrylic is built to last. Smooth surfaces and magnetic doors make cleaning a cinch. A forever home for your small critters.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Clean carefully and contain eggs

Remove frass (droppings) and debris routinely, but inspect it for eggs before throwing it away. Cleaning schedules depend on enclosure size, substrate and moisture. The Australian Museum describes cleaning every few weeks; the RSPCA recommends replacing paper lining weekly. These are source-specific routines, not one schedule for every setup. Let the enclosure dry after cleaning before returning the insects and branches.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Some species can reproduce parthenogenetically: females may lay fertile eggs without mating. AES identifies the Indian stick insect as one example. Eggs can be difficult to distinguish from frass. For Indian walking stick cage debris, the University of California Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program recommends putting it in a sealed bag, freezing it for a week, then disposing of it in the trash. Follow local rules for your species and location; never release pet insects or cage contents outdoors.

Best Value
RESTCLOUD Insect and Butterfly Habitat Cage Terrarium Pop-up 12" x 14" Tall
  • Professional Version: Mesh cage for students and families an unforgettable opportunity to watch caterpillars change into chrysalides and then emerge as beautiful Monarch, Painted Lady or Black Swallowtail Butterflies, Polyester Bottom for Easier Clean.
  • Butterfly Habitats is easy collapsible fold-flat style for storage. When unfolded the unit measures: 12 x 14 inches tall. The wings of a new butterfly are not risk of breaking when trying to stir up.
  • Side and Top opening door - never interrupt chrysalises on the cage roof. Large zipper opening for easy feed your butterflies, then release them into the wild. Butterflies will often land on little hands and faces before flying away.
  • Mesh panels for good airflow. Fine mesh enclosure is soft and breathable, so you know your caterpillars will be safe and comfortable for the duration of their stay.
  • Includes a quick start guide manual to raise butterflies.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

animal careinsect habitatPet Carestick insects

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You DownFree scan - exact matches
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.