Budwing Stick Insect (Eurycnema goliath) Care Sheet

Quick Facts

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Behavior

• Slow-moving and calm; rarely aggressive.

• Excellent camouflage among foliage; remains motionless during the day.

• Adults can drop limbs if stressed (autotomy), which may regenerate in juveniles.

• Social species; can be housed in groups with sufficient space.

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Enclosure Requirements

• Tank Size: Minimum 30 liters for a single adult; larger for groups

• Substrate: 2–4 cm of moist soil, coco fiber, or peat moss

• Decor: Live or artificial plants for climbing and hiding; branches and foliage essential

• Humidity: 60–80% (maintain moisture to prevent desiccation)

• Temperature:

  • Day: 22–28°C

  • Night: 18–22°C

• Lighting: Indirect or low light; avoid direct sunlight

• Ventilation: Moderate airflow to prevent mold and maintain healthy foliage

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Compatibility

• Can be housed in small groups if space and food are sufficient.

• Avoid aggressive or predatory insects in the same enclosure.

• Non-aggressive with other stick insect species if enough room is provided.

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Diet

• Herbivorous; feeds on a variety of leafy plants.

• Foods:

  • Bramble, raspberry, blackberry leaves

  • Oak, rose, ivy, eucalyptus (species-dependent)

  • Occasional soft vegetables (lettuce, spinach)

• Remove uneaten food daily to prevent mold.

• Provide fresh water via misting; insects drink water droplets.

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Care Tips

• Maintain consistent humidity and monitor substrate moisture.

• Provide climbing opportunities and vertical space.

• Avoid excessive handling; delicate legs and wings can break.

• Clean enclosure every 2–3 weeks; remove waste and decaying food.

• Monitor for molting difficulties; high humidity helps successful molts.

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Breeding

• Females lay eggs, often resembling seeds, in soil or on leaves.

• Incubation: 3–6 months depending on temperature and humidity.

• Nymphs require higher humidity and tender foliage.

• Can be housed together, but ensure sufficient food and space.

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Visual Quick Guide

• 🏠 Enclosure: ≥30 L, climbing branches, leafy plants

• 🌡️ Temp: Day 22–28°C / Night 18–22°C

• 💧 Humidity: 60–80%

• 🍴 Diet: Herbivore (leaves, occasional vegetables)

• 🕒 Activity: Nocturnal / crepuscular

• ⚠️ Stress: Avoid excessive handling; provide vertical space