Mantis Man13
Well-known member
I know some species require sticks to molt because mesh isn’t good enough but does mesh work for these mantises? Thanks. I get the mantis tomorrow.
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Do I need sticks in My Giant Asian Shield Mantis’s Cage
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MantisGirl13
Well-known member
As long as there's plenty of mesh, you're fine without a stick.
- MantisGirl13
- MantisGirl13
Mantis Man13
Well-known member
But what species require sticks? I know Brunners do right because mine fell when molting with only mesh.
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MantisGirl13
Well-known member
I don't really use sticks in my cage design, but most empusids and grass mantids would love sticks.
- MantisGirl13
Mantis Man13
Well-known member
Then why did my brunners fall when I used just mesh?
Grapple_Apple
Well-known member
I highly recommend using sticks that are about as thick as the abdomen of the mantis, I use them in all my enclosures, and I have never had a mismolt. I often see smaller species like ghosts, flowers, etc spending their time on sticks. If you do decide to use them, make sure there is adequate space between the sticks so the mantis can molt without bumping into anything.
Sticks are also boiled briefly to remove any organisms before they're added to the cups
Mantis Man13
Well-known member
Can I freeze the sticks instead in my freezer? If so how long?
Grapple_Apple
Well-known member
I don't really know if that works since there are microbes that live in below freezing temps without issue. Brushing with an old clean toothbrush under hot water from the tap can work too, and I really haven't encountered issues with that either.
Just make sure wherever you get your twigs from, there has been no use of insecticides or other potentially dangerous chemicals.
MantisGirl13
Well-known member
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