First time keeping mantids

[NixHexDude]

Just picked up a juvenile budwing and L3 asian leaf from Ken and need some advice. Since unpacked about 4 days ago, the budwing has not moved from its post on the lid of the vial, hanging upside down. It has eaten, but I just wanted to make sure this doesn't indicate a pending molt. I actually just opened it up to mist and let it crawl out, and now it's perched on my misting bottle which was on my desk. :clap: Also, and I realize this is a kind of stupid question...can they break the skin if they lash you wish their arms? I apologize in advance for my ignorance, but I can't afford the Keeping Aliens book at the moment. These things are awesome though; it's so weird having inverts that can actually see and look at you.

 

[voltdomingo]

Just picked up a juvenile budwing and L3 asian leaf from Ken and need some advice. Since unpacked about 4 days ago, the budwing has not moved from its post on the lid of the vial, hanging upside down. It has eaten, but I just wanted to make sure this doesn't indicate a pending molt. I actually just opened it up to mist and let it crawl out, and now it's perched on my misting bottle which was on my desk. :clap: Also, and I realize this is a kind of stupid question...can they break the skin if they lash you wish their arms? I apologize in advance for my ignorance, but I can't afford the Keeping Aliens book at the moment. These things are awesome though; it's so weird having inverts that can actually see and look at you.

hi, i just want to ask where did you buy your mantid and do they ship all the way here in asia, Philippines in particular. thanks in advance!

 

[davidbarber1]

Nix, they perch wherever they want. I have seen the ones in my area on walls, fences, plants, anything they like basically. As far as breaking skin, I have been tagged several times by large (3+ inch) females that are pissed. If you like needles in your finger tips, you are OK. But no, they do not break skin. As far as "see and looking at you", I prefer the term "STUDYING" you. You can see the intelligence in their every movement. Have you seen it clean itself yet?? Imagine a bug cleaning itself. You are in for a treat. I hope you enjoy your new acquisition!!

David

 

[Rochelle]

Budwings are fairly straightforward in their keep - but the asians need to eat very often. They have much faster metabolisms and will fail if not fed heavily. Ask Ken and he will very likely send you suggestions on correct care.
Hope this helps you!
Congrats on the new kids!