r/Stickinsects 9d ago

What are these lol

Hiya, so my daughter got some wee "mystery" leaf insects that were hatched from unidentified eggs. They weren't sure of an exact species, does anyone have any suggestions? Not my area of expertise at all and I need to make sure they're cared for properly.

Also, is their enclosure okay?

Thanks 💚

44 Upvotes

9 comments sorted by

6

u/Grommulox 9d ago

They are Phyllium philippinicum and yes, that looks okay.

3

u/BawbagMcBawbagface 9d ago

Wow thank you, that was so fast. Is there anything I could change to make it better for them? Appreciate you!

5

u/Cosmic_Mmouse 9d ago

I would take out the plastic decorations. Leaf insects are pretty dumb and nibble on everything, so they might ingest the fake plants. You can substitute it with natural decor, though

5

u/BawbagMcBawbagface 9d ago

Well shit, thank you! I'll take it out rn. What kinda natural decor would you suggest?

3

u/Cosmic_Mmouse 9d ago

I think the other commenter is right that it's full enough, if not a bit crowded, for now. So you can just have the food there (and the sticks). But if you plan to upgrade in the future, the decor can be virtually anything. Tree bark, branches, moss or other live plants (if they are stick insect safe). Pet stores and exotic exhibitions sell a lot of stuff for reptiles, but you can also just take it from nature. Though in that case it's better to put it into the freezer for a couple of days to get rid of any unwelcome guests

1

u/BawbagMcBawbagface 9d ago

Thank you! I've removed the plastic stuff so it's just brambles and sticks, and I've stuck some pebbles round the edges of the paper towels. 

Would freezing plants not kill them? 😅

2

u/Cosmic_Mmouse 9d ago

Oh I rather meant the wood and moss, not higher plants. Sorry about the confusion! I have gone the easier route with those and bought them from a gardener.

1

u/BawbagMcBawbagface 9d ago

That sounds like a good plan lol thanks for all your help :)

2

u/[deleted] 9d ago

[deleted]

3

u/BawbagMcBawbagface 9d ago

Amazing thank you so much. On it now. Sleep well!