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The Sungaya stick insect, scientifically known as Sungaya inexpectata, is a popular, medium-sized species in the pet trade, commonly called the Sunny stick insect or Philippine Ghost grasshopper. They are native to the forests and shrublands of the Philippines. 

 

Key Characteristics

  • Appearance: This species is sexually dimorphic, meaning males and females look different.
    • Females are larger, reaching 8–9 cm, with a sturdier body, and can vary in colour from dark brown to light grey, sometimes with white bands on their legs and body.
    • Males are smaller, around 4–5 cm, and tend to be a more uniform light-to-medium brown.
  • Behavior: They are a nocturnal, docile, and generally slow-moving species. They are known for playing dead and lying at the bottom of their enclosure when disturbed as a defense mechanism.
  • Camouflage: Their appearance helps them blend into their surroundings, mimicking bark, moss, and leaves. 

 

Husbandry and Care

Sungaya inexpectata are very easy to care for and are ideal for beginners in the hobby. 

  • Habitat: A tall enclosure is essential to allow ample vertical space for climbing and successful molting. Good cross-ventilation is recommended, such as in a mesh cage or glass terrarium.
  • Temperature & Humidity: They thrive well at average room temperatures, ideally between 20–24°C (68–75°F). Humidity should be maintained around 60-80% by lightly misting the enclosure every few days.
  • Substrate: A substrate like coco fibre, bark chips, or a peat moss/soil mix can be used. Females will flick their eggs onto the substrate or bury them in small pots of soil provided for oviposition.
  • Diet: They are herbivores that feed on a variety of common leaves. Preferred food plants include:
    • Bramble (blackberry)
    • Raspberry
    • Oak
    • Hawthorn
    • English Ivy
    • Rose bush leaves
  • Breeding: They can reproduce both sexually (if a male is present) and asexually via parthenogenesis (females can produce fertile eggs without a male). Eggs resemble small seeds and can take several months to hatch.

Sungaya inexpectata (Sungaya)

£5.00Price
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