Walkingsticks are fascinating insects known for their elongated bodies and ability to camouflage themselves amongst branches and foliage.
The primary species found in North America is the Northern Walkingstick (Diapheromera femorata).
These insects typically measure between 3.5-4 inches in length and are wingless in most cases.
Though intriguing, a common question that arises with encountering these creatures is whether or not they are poisonous.
The term “poisonous” can mean a few different things in our context.
In the case of walking sticks, it is important to note that they are not venomous and do not have harmful toxins that can be transferred through bites or stings.
However, it’s always a good idea to practice caution around any unfamiliar insects or animals, as individual reactions can vary.
Are Walking Sticks Poisonous
Venom and Chemical Spray
Walking sticks are insects known for their impressive camouflage abilities.
The majority of walking stick species, like the Northern Walkingstick, do not possess venom or a harmful sting.
However, some walking stick species have a defense mechanism involving a chemical spray. This spray contains a toxic substance that deters predators.
Harmful Effects on Humans and Animals
While most walking sticks are considered harmless, those that use chemical spray as a means of defense have the potential to cause harm to humans and animals.
- For humans, direct contact with the spray may lead to temporary blindness or irritation of the eyes and skin.
- Animals that come across these walking sticks might also feel the negative effects of the toxic spray.
| Feature | Walking Sticks |
|---|---|
| Venom | No |
| Sting | No |
| Chemical Spray | Some species |
| Harmful to humans | Potentially (chemical spray) |
| Harmful to animals | Potentially (chemical spray) |
Different Species of Walking Sticks
Stick Insects and Twig Mimicry
Stick insects, also known as phasmids, belong to the Phasmatodea order of insects.
Examples of such insects include the Northern walkingstick (Diapheromera femorata), which is wingless and native to North America.
They have a unique feature of their thorax making up one-half of their body length, allowing them to blend in with twigs.
Some characteristics of stick insects:
- Wingless
- Long, slender legs
- Long thread-like antennae
Leaf Insects and Camouflage
Leaf insects, also belonging to the Phasmatodea order, have evolved to resemble leaves for camouflage.
They have a flat, broad body, and their legs have leaf-like structures. This allows them to hide among foliage from predators.
Some features of leaf insects:
- Flat, broad body
- Leaf-like structures on legs
A comparison table between stick insects and leaf insects:
| Insect Type | Body Shape | Mimicry | Notable Species |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stick Insects | Long, slender | Twig-like | Northern walkingstick (D. femorata) |
| Leaf Insects | Flat, broad | Leaf-like | N/A |
Defense Mechanisms and Predators
Coloration and Body Structure
Walking sticks rely on their camouflage to protect themselves from predators.
They have a few features that help them blend into their surroundings:
- Resemble twigs or branches
- Light brown or green color
- Elongated, thin body
These features make it difficult for predators such as birds, spiders, reptiles, ants, and bats to detect them.
Other Adaptive Features
In addition to camouflage, walking sticks possess other defense mechanisms.
One notable feature is autotomy, which allows them to shed their appendages to escape predators.
Some walking stick species have chemical defenses.
For example, Florida walkingsticks can squirt a highly irritating liquid into the face of a potential predator, earning them the nickname “Musk-mare.”
| Feature | Walking Stick | Other Insect |
|---|---|---|
| Camouflage | Resembles twigs or branches | Varies by species |
| Autotomy | Shed appendages for escape | Not common in all insects |
| Chemical Defense | Some species (e.g., Florida walkingsticks) | Varies by species |
By using a combination of these defense mechanisms, walking sticks effectively protect themselves in the wild.
Habitat and Conservation Concerns
Natural Habitats and Range
Walking sticks are fascinating insects with a variety of species worldwide.
The common walking stick found in the southeastern United States ranges in length from 2 2/3 to 4 inches. These insects thrive in:
- Forests
- Woodlands
- Gardens
Threats and Conservation Efforts
Walking sticks face several threats, such as:
- Habitat destruction: As forests and woodlands are cleared for urban development, their natural habitat is lost.
- Pesticide use: The use of chemicals in agriculture and gardens can harm walking sticks and their environment.
Conservation efforts focus on:
- Promoting sustainable land use practices
- Reducing pesticide use
- Preserving green spaces in urban areas
Green and brown walking sticks differ in color, allowing them to blend in with their surroundings. Below is a comparison table of their characteristics:
| Feature | Green Walking Stick | Brown Walking Stick |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Green | Brown |
| Camouflage | Leaves | Branches |
These insects play a crucial role in the ecosystem, and conservation initiatives help protect their habitat, ensuring their survival.
Walking Stick Insects as Pets
Pet Trade and Captivity Requirements
Walking stick insects are popular pets in the pet trade due to their unique appearance and docile nature.
Their ideal captivity requirements include:
- Terrarium size: A tall terrarium with adequate ventilation
- Temperature: Mild and consistent, around 70-85°F
- Humidity: Moderate, about 60-70%
- Diet: Primarily leaves from various plants, such as bramble, oak, and rose
Potential Risks for Pet Owners
Although walking stick insects are generally considered safe pets, they still come with some potential risks for pet owners:
- Escape: Walkingsticks are excellent at camouflage, making them difficult to find if they escape their enclosure
- Predation: Mother nature may lead other pets or insects to prey on walking stick insects
Walking stick insects can be compared to other pet invertebrates, like praying mantises and tarantulas, in terms of their specific care requirements:
| Pet Insect | Size of Terrarium | Humidity | Diet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walkingstick | Tall and ventilated | 60-70% | Plant leaves |
| Praying Mantis | Tall and ventilated | 40-70% | Small insects (live) |
| Tarantula | Wide and ventilated | 50-80% | Insects, small vertebrates |
While walking stick insects might not be for everyone, they are an interesting choice for those looking to explore the fascinating world of invertebrate pets.
Reproduction and Development
Mating and Eggs
Northern walkingsticks (Diapheromera femorata) exhibit interesting reproductive behaviors.
Males search for females, who release pheromones to attract them.
Once they find a partner, the pair mates, and the female lays her eggs. Here are some key features of their reproduction:
- Males are smaller than females
- Females lay eggs individually or in small groups
- Some species are capable of parthenogenetic reproduction, where females produce offspring without mating
Growth and Maturity
The life cycle of a walking stick begins as an egg, followed by several nymph stages, and eventually reaches maturity.
The process involves a series of molts, during which the nymph sheds its old exoskeleton and emerges with a new one.
Growth and maturity details include:
- After hatching, nymphs resemble small adults
- Nymphs molt multiple times before reaching maturity
- Molting frequency varies among species
Here’s a comparison between nymphs and adults:
| Nymph | Adult | |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Resemble adults | Larger size |
| Growth | Molting stages | Mature |
| Activity | Feeding, growth | Reproduction |
Interesting Facts about Walking Sticks
Some interesting facts about walking sticks include their ability to regenerate limbs, size variations, and unique species found in different regions.
- Walking sticks can regenerate limbs if they lose one, which is an amazing survival adaptation.
- They come in various sizes, with one Texas species, Megaphasma dentricus, being the longest insect, almost 7 inches long.
One notable species of walking stick is the Eurycantha horrida, which has leg spines that add to its defensive capabilities.
Another interesting species is the two-striped walking stick, especially found in Florida, known for its unique markings and ability to release defensive chemicals.
Here’s a quick comparison of the two species:
| Species | Unique Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Eurycantha horrida | Leg spines for defense |
| Two-striped Walking Stick | Distinct markings, releases chemicals |
In summary:
- Walking sticks display remarkable abilities like limb regeneration and camouflage.
- There are various species of walking sticks, each with unique characteristics.
- Leg spines and chemical defenses are some examples of their survival adaptations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Walkingsticks are not generally considered poisonous.
They are herbivorous insects known for their remarkable camouflage that resembles twigs or branches.
While they do have some defense mechanisms, such as spines or the ability to exude foul-smelling liquids, they are not toxic to humans.
Their primary method of defense is to blend into their surroundings to avoid being eaten by predators.
64 Comments. Leave new
wow! beautiful!
this red stick insect belongs to the genus Autolyca (ID by my friend Oskar Conle, who is the main phasmid taxonomist for this region).
Most probably this is a new species.
@Medjai – could you please share a more precise location where you found this one. You can contact me on my email adress:
gopala@bluewin.ch
Thanks for the correction on this. This posting is recent enough that we might be able to locate contact information for Medjai.
this is Eurycnema osiris (not E. goliath!)
Thanks for the correction on this image. It would be nice if your comment also provided some rationale for your identification. We will try to find a link to the species you mentioned.
Good day,
Thank you for your interest and follow-up.
Seems to me like it’s still an undescribed species also. I found him/her while mowing some brush in a friend’s mountain house, I immediately stopped mowing so i wouldn’t hurt him, also found a few tarantulas in the near surrounding.
Since you ask for a more precise location, I could post some coordinates here later today? Piliguin mountain is a pine forest reserve just beside La Tigra National Park, located in the heart of Honduras, Central America.
I’ve subscribed to this thread so I can answer imemdiately from my mobile device.
Good day to you all.
Dear Medjai,
Thanks for supplying additional information.
@ Medjai
Thanks for the info, now I have an idea where the location is. Are you still there, or would you still have the opportunity to visite this site again?
If we could get material of this species, then we would describe it (if it is really a new species) – and give it your name. Best would be eggs, so that I can breed them in vivo. If this is of interest to you, the please write to my email adress which is mentioned above. Then I can send you detailed infos on how to collect some eggs.
Also you would give us permission to post your photos (with your name) on our scientific site on phasmids (www.phasmatodea.com), then you can also send these to my email adress.
@Bugman
your ID was not totally off, Autolyca and Monticomorpha are quite closely related species – and they look quite similar 🙂
Hello,
I go there often, I would be interested in helping describe this species.
I’ll send you the pics and of course you have permission to post them on your site. By the way I checked out phasmatodea.com and found a similar species. (Agathemera > Elegans)
Dear Medjai
yes are right. The coloration and habitus of the male of A. elegans looks somewhat similar to your Autolyca species. But taxonomically they are rather distantly related, asa they belong to different suborders within the order Phasmatodea. Agathemera are high altitude species from southern America (up to 4000m).
Also the specimen in your photos is actually a fully grown female specimen. The male will be a bit smaller, maybe only about 6-7 cm.
So I wait for your email, then I will send you also the details how to collect the eggs.
Bruno
Hola Medjai
just in case you have already sent an email with photos of Phasmatodea to me, then it has not arrived here…. Sometimes they get lost in in cyper Nirvana
Alternatively you can also contact me via Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/phasmatodea
looking forward to hear from you again
Bruno
Dear Medjai,
I would love to get some specimens of this insect! Can you please email me at: All.Things.Bugs [at] gmail [dot] com ?
That is a Brunneria borealis. They are no males of this species. The females are parthenogenetic.
We are very thrilled to have you identify our Brunner’s Stick Mantis. This resourceful species has managed to survive in Texas and vicinity without males of the species.
I would strongly suggest to first get national collecting permits from the ICF (El Instituto Nacional de Conservación y Desarrollo Forestal, Áreas Protegidas y Vida Silvestre), countries like this often dont take kindly to foreigners taking their biodiversity, especially live specimens, without their permission.
Hi Stuart,
Thanks for reminding our readers who travel that returning home with specimens might result in problems with customs.
So much for permits, the species is now in culture in Europe, I assume illegally.
Hello Daniel,
This is one of two phasmid species traditionally consumed in PNG. I have no idea if they’re still eaten by people there.
Best,
Dave
Thanks Dave. I will tag this as edible as well.
Hi I am selling eggs of this species and am looking for a lovely picture to use.
Can I have your permission to use this PLEASE.
thank you so much
Hi I am selling eggs of this species and am looking for a lovely picture to use.
Can I have your permission to use this PLEASE.
thank you so much
Please credit Craig and What’s That Bug?
caught one today complete and undamaged.. beautiful creature ..
Acridinae
En Honduras a este fásmido se le conocce con el nombre de “chilincoco” y se considera venoso por su secreción.
Muchas Gracias.
Very nice picture
I have import permits through the Invertebrate Studies Institute. I would love to get eggs of this for research! Please contact me.
We have approved your comment. Let us know if anyone contacts you.
Fantastic bug and picture. I’m writing an 8 volume about the epic adventures of three kids named the Bandeliers. They are Australia right not and this amazing creature will be a part of it.
Anatomically, anybody know what those big translucent wing things are behind the second green wing?
The hind wings are partially translucent.
Anatomically, anybody know what those big translucent wing things are behind the second green wing?
***this was re-sent because I gave the wrong email!****
Anatomically, anybody know what those big translucent wing things are behind the second green wing?
***this was re-sent because I gave the wrong email!****
The hind wings are partially translucent.
1.What we thought was an amazing praying mantis found outside the back door of the camp kitchen was actually a female Children’s stick insect. The Melbourne Museum expert said so. Please could we use Craig’s picture of the children’s stick insect on his hand (crediting Craig and your website.)
Thank you
Marie Goonan Newsletter editor
P S I would like to send you a photo of our Children’s stick insect but I have not figured out how to yet.
1. What we thought was an amazing praying mantis found outside the back door of the camp kitchen was actually a female Children’s stick insect. The Melbourne Museum expert said so. Please could we use Craig’s picture of the children’s stick insect on his hand (crediting Craig and your website.)
Thank you
Marie Goonan Newsletter editor
P S I would like to send you a photo of our Children’s stick insect but I have not figured out how to yet.
Yes, you may use the image from this posting for educational purposes. You may submit your image using our Ask What’s That Bug? link from our web site. PLease include “Children’s Stick Insect” in the subject line.
Chilincocos are very common in Santa Lucia, a town near Tegucigalpa, Piliguin used to be one of its villages. I think almost everybody in Santa Lucia, Valle de Angeles and all the villages that surround the Tigra Mountain have these species.
Thanks so much for the information.
I’ll also add i saw several very similar in the hills around Tegucigalpa, and there’s an entomology collection at the university UNAH, and a massive entomology collection at Zamorano. I suggest anyone interested to get specimens should contact local biologists at those places first ….
This could actually be a female Extatosoma tiaratum bufonium… would be great if so!
Hi bcnu,
Where abouts in Queensland did you see her and was it September that she was sighted? She is a great specimen.
We should be going back to Brisbane in January and it would be nice to get some photos of this species.
Hi bcnu,
Where abouts in Queensland did you see her and was it September that she was sighted? She is a great specimen.
We should be going back to Brisbane in January and it would be nice to get some photos of this species.
I live in a mountain within 7 km from Tegucigalpa and I find chilincocos in my house almost every week. I see lots of them arronund here.
Hi Melvin
that sound interesting. Can you please contact me vai email (gopala@bluewin.ch) or Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/phasmatodea)
Please email me as well. I am doing research on these insects and would love to learn more about the ones you are finding there:
Invertebrate.Studies.Institute@gmail.com
I also just took photos of one here in Nicaragua and then found your post here. My photos have GIS info, and I took multiple photos, including habitat where found. I could go back tomorrow to see if we can find any again. Would be interested in finding out about collection, etc.
I will also upload some of the photos here – I will check to see if I am already a member, and if not, I will join.
We have just returned from several weeks away from the office and are approving new comments. We have not yet posted new identification requests, but images can be sent using the Ask What’s That Bug? link on our site.
Can you email me with some of the photos as well? I study these for my research and would like to learn more about the ones you find in Nicaragua. Thanks! : Invertebrate.Studies.Institute@gmail.com
Dear A.E. Shaul
I would also be interested in your photos, which you could send directly to my email adress:
gopala@bluewin.ch
Bruno Kneubuehler PhD (Switzerland)
http://www.phasmatodea.com
I’m currently visiting a friends house here on the outskirts of Tegucigalpa, Honduras in a neighborhood called Las Uvas and we found one here. They say they see them quite often. The coloration was almost full black with a light reddish tone in some places.
I’ve recently found one in la montaña de Azacualpa in Francisco Morazan. It had a red coloration and i’ve never seen one before, thanks to this blog!
Hi, I live near La montaña de Azacualpa, and I have also found those bugs in El Tablón, in my backyard. Have you found any more of those?
I hace found some individuales of this species in El Hatillo, Tegucigalpa. I have some pictures if you need it and the GPS location. Is it a new species? I would like to know the name .
Cheers,
Ricardo
Please email me at: invertebrate.studies.institute@gmail.com
I would like to know more and see the photos. I study phasmids similar to this.
Thanks for the blog and the info!
Hola Ricardo
I’d also be interested in these infos, and I can give you further updates on the description status of this species. You can contact me by email (gopala@bluewin.ch) or FB (www.facebook.com/phasmatodea)
En el municipio de Santa Ana , cerca de Tegucigalpa también son muy comunes , quisiera saber si ya están clasificados en una nueva orden de insectos ?
Pues estos insectos pertenecen al orden Phasmatodea, de la familia Pseudophasmatidae. Y como dijo el Dr. Conle, es del género Autolyca. Yo estoy trabajando con determinación taxonómica de los phasmidos de la colección entomológica de Zamorano, si usted ha visto uno, trate de colectarlo y traigalo a Zamorano si puede. Muchas gracias.
De la familia Agathemeridae*, perdón.
Also common in Los Encinos, Zarabanda, Santa Lucía, Honduras. I see them very often on the walls of the patio. They could be photosensitive. They do not seem to move too quickly and smell poisonous… I have never seen their nests/habitats for egg collection…
An adult female Titan Stick Insect (Acrophylla titan) – the long wavy cerci and the dark spots on the underside are diagnostic features
Thanks so much for that identification.