How to Keep Praying Mantis as Pet

Praying mantises are fascinating creatures that make great pets for people of all ages. They are relatively easy to care for and can provide hours of entertainment. If you are thinking about getting a praying mantis as a pet, here are a few things you need to know.

Choosing a Praying Mantis

There are many different species of praying mantises, so you will need to decide which one is right for you. Some of the most popular species include the Chinese praying mantis, the African praying mantis, and the European praying mantis. Each species has its own unique appearance and personality, so do some research to find one that you think you will enjoy.

When you are choosing a praying mantis, it is important to make sure that it is healthy. Look for a mantis that is active and alert, with no visible injuries or deformities. The mantis should also be a good size for its species. A mantis that is too small is more likely to be eaten by its prey, while a mantis that is too large may be difficult to handle.

Housing Your Praying Mantis

Praying mantises need a terrarium that is at least three times their length and twice their width. The terrarium should be well-ventilated and have a secure lid. You can decorate the terrarium with plants, rocks, and other objects to make it more appealing to your mantis.

The temperature in the terrarium should be between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use a heat lamp or a heating pad to maintain the desired temperature. The humidity in the terrarium should be between 50 and 60 percent. You can use a humidifier or a misting bottle to increase the humidity.

Feeding Your Praying Mantis

Praying mantises are carnivores and eat a variety of insects, including flies, mosquitoes, moths, and crickets. You can purchase live insects from a pet store or you can catch them yourself. If you catch insects yourself, make sure that they are free of pesticides and other chemicals.

You should feed your praying mantis every day or two. The amount of food that you give your mantis will depend on its size and species. As a general rule, you should give your mantis enough food so that it can eat its fill in about 15 minutes.

Caring for Your Praying Mantis

In addition to feeding your praying mantis, you will also need to clean its terrarium regularly. You should remove any dead insects or uneaten food from the terrarium and replace the water in the water bowl. You should also mist the terrarium with water every day or two to increase the humidity.

Praying mantises are generally low-maintenance pets, but they do require some attention and care. If you are willing to provide your mantis with the proper care, it can make a great pet for many years.