Stick bug eating habits?

[Joanie]

I have a small group (3) of Vietnamese walkingsticks. I'm currently feeding them romaine lettuce, though I am hoping to try them on bramble once the weather warms up around here.

Occasionally, usually when they're just starting or just finishing eating, I notice the sticks having a large drop of clear fluid clinging to their mouthparts. It looks to be something they've produced or gathered in their mouths. Anybody know what this is?

Just curious. I'm pretty new to keeping sticks. Thanks for any information!

 

[Wade]

Not sure what the fluid is, perhaps just something from the plants? My stick experience is pretty limited as well!

Have you tried wax myrtle, aka bayberry, as food? I've found some will accept this, and it grows green all year long. The trick is to mix it in with their usual food, and gradually they begin to switch over.

Wade