Stickbugs, also known as phasmids or walking sticks, are insects renowned for their exceptional camouflage. They blend seamlessly into their environment, mimicking twigs, branches, or leaves to avoid predators. Their diet is exclusively herbivorous, consisting solely of plant matter.
Primary Food Sources in the Wild
In their natural habitats, wild stickbugs are strict herbivores, primarily consuming leaves from a diverse range of plants. Many species prefer foliage from oak, rose, bramble, raspberry, and privet. Other common food sources include hazel, hawthorn, eucalyptus, and ivy. Some species also feed on leaves from black cherry or blueberry plants.
Different stickbug species often exhibit specific preferences for certain types of foliage, adapting to the most abundant and non-toxic plants in their local environment. Their diet is linked to their camouflage, as consuming the plants they mimic helps them blend in. They typically feed at night, minimizing their exposure to predators.
What to Feed Pet Stickbugs
For pet stickbugs, providing the correct diet is important for their health and longevity. Suitable plant leaves include fresh bramble (blackberry), privet, hawthorn, rose, oak, raspberry, and hazel. Some species also consume eucalyptus leaves. Ensure all leaves are fresh, as captive stickbugs will not eat old or dried foliage. Leaves must be pesticide-free, as chemicals are fatal to the insects.
To prepare, gather fresh cuttings and wash them thoroughly to remove any dust or debris. Place the cut stems in a jar with water to keep the leaves fresh for several days. Cover the container opening to prevent the stickbugs from falling in and drowning. Offering a variety of suitable leaves can provide a well-rounded diet, mimicking their natural foraging behaviors. While some stickbugs may eat romaine lettuce, it offers less nutritional value compared to their preferred natural foliage.
Foods to Avoid
Avoid plants and substances toxic or harmful to stickbugs. Leaves treated with pesticides or other chemicals are highly dangerous and can cause severe illness or death. For this reason, avoid feeding leaves from garden centers or florists, as these are almost always chemically treated, and such treatments cannot be washed off.
Certain plant types, while seemingly innocuous, can also pose risks. New, bright green bramble leaves, for instance, may be poisonous to young stick insects. While some species consume ivy, it can be toxic in large amounts for others. Plants like aloe vera and spider plant leaves are generally not recommended, as stickbugs may not consume them or they could be harmful. Always source food from areas known to be free of chemical contamination to prevent accidental poisoning.