Mismolt?

[vyadha]

So one of my female ghosts is molting into an adult. Her wings are spread and it appears she is nearly finished but shes been in the same position for few hours now. When I get close she moves her arms and two legs. It looks like her terminal legs may be stuck. I tried taking pics but the reflection is bad and I dont want to move the enclosure at all. 

Any tips other than just waiting another hour or two?

 

[hysteresis]

So one of my female ghosts is molting into an adult. Her wings are spread and it appears she is nearly finished but shes been in the same position for few hours now. When I get close she moves her arms and two legs. It looks like her terminal legs may be stuck. I tried taking pics but the reflection is bad and I dont want to move the enclosure at all. 

Any tips other than just waiting another hour or two?

They climb out of their exuvia when they're able. The last part that remains attached is the tip of their abdomen. They hang and allow their new exoskeleton to scleorotize or 'set up'. Then they'll use their back legs to grapple the exuvia or even a twig or mesh, and climb out to finish drying. 

As far as timeline, hard to say. If you intervene, you risk damaging the new exoskeleton, or even their joints. You could try offering up a perch to help it pull away.

Wish someone else would offer tips.

 

[vyadha]

Her abdomen is free but it looks like two or three legs are stuck. Can I try misting her?

 

[hysteresis]

I would. If its been hoiurs, free her if you can, IMO.

 

[vyadha]

So she’s freed. Her wings and back legs are very misshapen. I don’t think she can perch.

shes drinking a lot of water. Im going to try to take care of her but I’m going out of town for three days next week and doubt she’ll make it

 

[Mantis Lady]

Poor thing..... I hope she can use her back legs a bit later

 

[MantisGirl13]

I'm sorry she mismolted! Hopefully she makes it.

- MantisGirl13

 

[hysteresis]