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Care for Leaf Bugs

Furry friends and scaly reptiles do not appeal to all people. Certain people enjoy the observational aspect of owning insects. Leaf bugs in particular are a favorite among many insect owners. Leaf bugs belong to the Phasmid species and are commonly associated with stick insects. Leaf bugs are relatively low-key insects that require fresh plants, moss and plenty of water. The simplicity of owning a leaf bug and the learning aspect make these insects ideal for children and adults.

Things You'll Need

Mesh cage or glass tank
Mesh lid or top
Sphagnum or peat moss
Jar
Plants
Spray bottle

Instructions

- 1
  Set up a proper habitat for your leaf bug. A fish tank or mesh cage positioned vertically are ideal housing for leaf bugs. Habitats must also have plenty of air flow. To ensure that your leaf bug is getting enough air flow, the containing area should ideally have a mesh side or top.
- 2
  Put a substrate at the bottom of the habitat. A substrate of sphagnum moss or peat moss is ideal. Substrate catches any waste and absorbs excess water. Clean the substrate out of the habitat once or twice a week.
- 3
  Place plenty of plants in the habitat. Gather bramble, oak or evergreen oak leaves. Keep a length of stem on the leaves. Thoroughly wash the leaves, place them in a jar of water and then place the jar in the habitat. Press the jar down into the substrate to prevent the jar from tipping. Fan out the leaves. Change the jar of leaves at least once per week and lightly mist the leaves once every few days to provide the leaf bug with plenty of water.
- 4
  Coax the leaf bug to eat. Cut the edges of a few leaves in the habitat. The smell of the leaves will attract and entice the leaf bug.

Insects & Science