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Indian Stick Insect

Carausius morosus

HarmlessRare

Quick answer

Harmless plant eater. Safety level: Harmless.

How to identify the Indian Stick Insect

A long, thin, wingless insect that looks like a twig, 7-10 cm long.
Green or brown, sometimes with a red patch on the inside of the front legs.
Sways gently when it moves, imitating a twig in the wind.
Size: 7–10 cm.

Where it lives

Native to southern India and kept as a pet around the world. Escaped populations live in parts of Europe, Africa and the United States, in gardens with ivy, privet and bramble.

Is it dangerous?

Indian stick insects are completely harmless. They do not bite, sting or carry disease. They are slow, gentle plant eaters.

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Children and pets

Safe and gentle.

What to do

Leave it on its plant.

Fun fact

Females can lay eggs that hatch without any males.

Frequently asked questions

Do stick insects bite?

No. They eat leaves and are harmless to people.

Can stick insects reproduce alone?

Yes. Females can lay eggs that hatch without any males.

Are stick insects good pets for children?

Yes, with adult supervision. Handle them gently and wash hands afterwards.