Behavior & Training Tips

Have you ever thought about having a pet that’s quiet, unique, and super interesting? A stick bug might be the perfect choice for you! These incredible creatures are masters of disguise, looking like twigs or branches. Stick insects are popular pets because of their twig-like look, and they are quite easy to take care of. With over 2,500 species worldwide, the Indian stick insect is the most common, and the Indonesian stick bug is the easiest to handle. This helps them hide from predators in the wild. However, beyond their amazing camouflage, stickbugs are easy to care for and can make fascinating pets. At EcoPetEssentials, we are going to help you figure out everything that you need to know about stick bugs, including types, care, and what to feed them.

Different Types of Stick Bugs

There are many types of stickbugs, and some are better for pets than others. Here are a few:

• Indonesian stick bug: This species is gentle, calm, and easy to handle, making it one of the best stickbugs for your home.
• Acrophylla alta: The stick bug is known as one of the biggest stick insects. This newly discovered Australian bug is huge! It weighs about 44 grams, almost like a golf ball, and is as long as your forearm. While fascinating, it’s not the easiest bug insect to keep as a pet. Now, you know the answer to the question, What is the biggest stick bug in the world? 
• Other bugs of Australia: Australia is home to many giant insects, and some are massive enough to surprise even scientists. These creatures are fascinating but are better admired in nature than as pets.

Why Stick Bugs Make Great Pets

When you bring a stickbug home, you’re getting a low-maintenance, quiet pet. They’re slow-moving, calm, and don’t need much attention. Here’s why you’ll love them:

• They are fascinating to watch as they move and blend in with branches.
• They don’t need daily walks or complicated care.
• You can learn a lot about stick insects and nature by observing them.

For beginners, smaller species like the Indonesian stick bug are the best choice. They’re easier to care for than the giant stick bugs from Australia.

How to Set Up a Home for Your Stick Bug?

To make your stickbug comfortable, you’ll need a simple habitat:

• You can use a vertical terrarium or a glass tank with ventilation. It is best to get an enclosure size based on the number and breed of your stick insects. You have to make sure that it’s tall enough for them to hang while molting.
• Then, add branches and leaves for climbing. You have to line the enclosure with moisture-absorbing bedding like soil, pebbles, or newspaper. 
• You also have to keep the humidity slightly high for tropical species. You can lightly mist the enclosure.
• You have to maintain a temperature between 22°C and 26°C (71°F to 78°F), as stick insects live best in this range for healthy growth and comfort.
• It is important to avoid direct sunlight and drafts to keep your insect bug healthy.

Stickbugs are delicate, so make sure their enclosure is safe and secure.

Feeding Your Stick Bug

If you are wondering, what does a stick bug eat? Then, you’ll be glad to know that feeding the stickbug is easy. They mostly eat leaves, and you can even use products reviewed by EcoPetEssentials to make feeding simple. Here’s what your insect bug can enjoy:

• Leaves: Bramble, rose, oak, hibiscus, ivy
• Vegetables: Carrot, cucumber (soft pieces)
• Products: Leaf Mix for Insects, EcoBites for Herbivorous Bugs

You have to wash leaves and veggies thoroughly before feeding stick bug. This removes any pesticides. It is important that you give your bug fresh leaves daily and remove old food to keep the habitat clean.

Handling and Care

Stickbugs are gentle, but you need to handle them carefully. Here’s what we recommend:

• Wash your hands before and after handling.
• You should avoid picking them up too often, as they can drop legs if stressed.
• You have to clean the cage regularly to prevent mold or bacteria.
• It is important that you mist the plants and the substrate lightly, as it is their main source of water. 

Fascinating Facts About Stick Bugs

Some stick bugs are true giants of the insect world! Scientists recently discovered the Acrophylla alta. It is also called the Highlands Giant Acrophylla. This newly found stick bug was discovered in 2025 in Australia’s tropical highland forests of Queensland. The researchers found it by total accident as it fell on their campsite. Even with millions of insect species still unidentified, stickbugs show just how amazing nature can be. Here are some fun facts:

• Some stickbugs can shed a leg to escape predators.
• They rely on camouflage instead of fighting or running.
• The largest insect ever recorded is a giant wētā from New Zealand, weighing 71 grams!

Bringing Nature Into Your Home and Stick Bug Names:

You are adding a tiny piece of the forest in your home by keeping a stickbug. They’re quiet, easy to care for, and perfect for beginners who want a unique pet. Whether you choose the calm Indonesian stick bug or simply love learning about bugs of Australia, these fascinating insect bugs are sure to delight you. With the right care, you and your stickbug can enjoy many months of observing this incredible, slow-moving creature. If you are wondering what to name your stick bug, then here is a list of names for stick bugs:

• Groot 
• Skibidi Stick
• Lil Twiggy
• Rizz Twig
• Sir Stickleton

Tips on How to Look After Stick Insects as Pets:

Stickbugs or stick insects, are incredible creatures that can teach us about nature and the hidden wonders of the insect world. From the gentle Indonesian stick bug to the massive biggest stick from Australia, there’s a lot to admire. By giving them the right home, feeding them properly, and handling them carefully, you can enjoy having one of these unique stick bugs as a pet. Therefore, if you’re ready for a low-maintenance, interesting, and educational pet, then EcoPetEssentials is here to guide you!

FAQs 

Are stick bugs harmful to humans?
No, stick bugs aren’t harmful. They don’t bite or sting—you can safely handle them if you’re gentle.

Is it rare to see a stick bug?
Yes, you rarely spot them because they camouflage so well. You may walk past one without noticing, as it looks exactly like a twig.

Why are stick bugs illegal?
Stick bugs are illegal to own in some places because they’re invasive. If released, they could harm native plants and local ecosystems.

What do stick bugs spit out?
Some stick bugs can spit a harmless, foul-smelling liquid when threatened. Don’t worry, it won’t hurt you, but it might surprise you.

Do stick bugs make noise?
No, stick bugs don’t make noise. You’ll only hear them rustle leaves as they move. They’re quiet, peaceful pets for you to enjoy.

Isla Bennett

Isla Bennett loves Misty, her two-year-old British Shorthair. And she wants to help other pet parents make sustainable choices that are good for their pets and the planet. She writes about easy ways to care for animals using green products. Isla believes that happy pets and a healthy earth go hand in hand. Her goal is to make pet care simple, fun, and eco-friendly. She also gives you insights about different pet Breeds and traits!