African twig Mantis
Popa Spurca or commonly called the African Twig Mantis is a master of camouflage. Their body perfectly mimic twigs and sticks that they perch on. Like their name, they originate in Africa. They are not as demanding on humidity levels as other species. They are relatively easy to keep
African Twig Mantis Care
Housing:
Mantids don’t require much space but the cage or container needs to be able to accommodate them as they grow. Generally the container must be 3x the mantis length and 2x for the width. It must be well ventilated to prevent the growth of mold
This species can be kept communally if plenty of space and food is provided
Temperature:
They prefer temps from 75-86 F but can go lower at night. However anything lower than 70 can be dangerous. A heat lamp or heating pad can be used to get the desired temp.
Humidity:
They can have a lower humidity requirement of 40-50%. misting once every other day does the trick.
Water:
Mantids do not require standing water to drink and receive most of their moisture from their food. They will however drink water drops from misting. Good ventilation is required to prevent mold growth from higher humidity
Feeding:
Flying insects are the preferred source of food. As nymphs fruit flies are the ideal food source and increase to house flies and blue/green bottle flies as they get larger. They also will enjoy moths or other harmless flying insects. It’s recommended that the size of the feeder insect does not exceed 1/2 the mantis length.
Adults can eat crickets or roaches however they don’t often climb up high enough to where the mantis is hiding and go uneaten. Most pet stores sell fruit flies and wax worms that can be grown into moths. Larger flies can found easily from online suppliers or sometimes from bait shops.