Should i try to feed her?

[agent A]

My green ghost gal has had swollen wingbuds for over a week now and still hasnt molted and im getting worried because she is getting thinner

Should i offer her a few flies for good measure?

 

[sinensispsyched]

Maybe try hand feeding so that you don't leave those agitating flies in her enclosure.

 

[agent A]

her ovi is open so she is abt to molt

i put her in a net cage with plant matter so she has an easier time

 

[lancaster1313]

her ovi is open so she is abt to molt

i put her in a net cage with plant matter so she has an easier time

That is how I am able to tell when it is very close. Wingbuds can be swollen for quite a while, but I treat the mantis normally until I see the swollen buds appear lifted, and the genitalia is open. I only stick to that for later instar mantids.

The earlier instars frequently surprise me with their molts. Many seem to act and eat normally within a day of their molts.