How to Keep a Mantis as a Pet

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

Choosing a Mantis

There are over 2,000 species of mantises in the world, but not all of them make good pets. Some of the most popular pet mantises include:

• Chinese mantis (Tenodera sinensis)
• European mantis (Mantis religiosa)
• Giant African mantis (Sphodromantis viridis)
• Ghost mantis (Phyllocrania paradoxa)
• Orchid mantis (Hymenopus coronatus)

When choosing a mantis, it is important to consider your experience level and the amount of time you are willing to spend caring for it. Some mantises, such as the Chinese and European mantises, are relatively easy to care for and are good choices for beginners. Other mantises, such as the giant African and ghost mantises, are more challenging to care for and are best suited for experienced keepers.

Housing Your Mantis

Mantises need a secure enclosure that is large enough for them to move around comfortably. The enclosure should also have good ventilation and be easy to clean. A 10-gallon aquarium is a good size for most mantises, but you may need a larger enclosure if you have a larger species.

The bottom of the enclosure should be covered with a substrate that will help to maintain humidity, such as peat moss or vermiculite. You should also provide your mantis with a few branches or sticks to climb on and a hiding place.

Feeding Your Mantis

Mantises are predators and they eat live insects. The type of insects you feed your mantis will depend on its size and species. Some common foods for mantises include:

• Fruit flies
• House flies
• Mealworms
• Crickets
• Roaches

You should feed your mantis once or twice a week. It is important to make sure that the insects you feed your mantis are not too large or too small. You should also avoid feeding your mantis insects that have been treated with pesticides or other chemicals.

Caring for Your Mantis

In addition to food and water, your mantis will also need a warm and humid environment. The ideal temperature for most mantises is between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. You can provide your mantis with heat by using a heat lamp or a reptile heat pad. You should also mist the enclosure with water once or twice a day to maintain humidity.

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

Conclusion

Mantises are fascinating creatures that can make great pets. If you are thinking about getting a mantis, be sure to do your research and choose a species that is right for you. With proper care, your mantis can thrive for many years.