PHILIPPINE LEAF INSECT

Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name: Phyllium philippinicum
Adult Size: Approx. 7–10 cm | Lifespan: Around 1 year | Activity: Mainly nocturnal

📏 SIZE

• Adults generally reach 7–10 cm.
• Females are larger and broader than males.
• Nymphs are small and very delicate.

🏠 HOUSING

• Tall, secure enclosure with excellent ventilation.
• Minimum adult enclosure: approximately 30 × 30 × 45 cm.
• Provide plenty of branches for climbing and feeding.
• Allow at least 3× the insect's body length in height for moulting.
• Avoid overcrowding.

🌡️ TEMPERATURE

• Aim for 20–25°C.
• Normal household temperatures are generally suitable.
• Avoid prolonged temperatures above 27°C.
• Keep away from direct sunlight and radiators.

💡 LIGHTING

• UVB is not essential.
• Normal room lighting is sufficient.
• Provide a natural day/night cycle.
• Avoid intense lighting directly over the enclosure.

💧 HUMIDITY

• Aim for approximately 60–80%.
• Lightly mist the enclosure regularly.
• Allow some ventilation and partial drying between mistings.
• Avoid keeping the enclosure constantly wet.

🌿 FOOD

• Feed fresh, pesticide-free leaves.
• Suitable foods include bramble, raspberry, rose, oak and guava.
• Keep fresh food available at all times.
• Place cut stems in a secure water container.
• Prevent insects from falling into the water.

💦 WATER

• They obtain most moisture from their food and misting.
• Light misting provides drinking droplets.
• No deep water bowl is required.
• Always provide fresh, pesticide-free food plants.

🐚 SHEDDING

• Nymphs moult several times before reaching adulthood.
• They may stop feeding and become less active before moulting.
• Provide plenty of clear vertical space.
• Never disturb a leaf insect while moulting.
• A failed moult can result in serious injury or death.

🤲 HANDLING

• Handle very gently and only when necessary.
• Encourage the insect to walk onto your hand.
• Never pull or grab the legs, wings or abdomen.
• Young nymphs are especially fragile.
• Avoid handling around moulting.

❤️ HEALTH

• Healthy leaf insects should have a good grip, normal movement and regular feeding.
• Difficulty climbing, damaged limbs or failed moults can indicate a problem.
• Ensure adequate ventilation, fresh food and suitable humidity.
• Remove dead or severely damaged insects promptly.

🧹 CLEANING

• Remove old leaves and droppings regularly.
• Replace food plants before they become mouldy.
• Clean heavily soiled areas as required.
• Avoid harsh chemicals, pesticides and household cleaning sprays.

🏡 BEFORE YOU BRING YOUR ANIMAL HOME

✓ Tall, secure enclosure
✓ Excellent ventilation
✓ Plenty of climbing branches
✓ Clear vertical moulting space
✓ Fresh, pesticide-free food plant
✓ Temperature checked and stable
✓ Hygrometer installed
✓ Secure water containers for food stems

⚠️ IMPORTANT BITS

• Never feed leaves that may have been treated with pesticides.
• Always provide enough height for a complete moult.
• Leaf insects are extremely fragile and can easily lose legs if handled roughly.
• Keep fresh food available at all times.
• Replace wilted or mouldy food promptly.
• Do not house with animals that may eat or injure them.
• Different leaf insect species can have different food requirements, so confirm the species before introducing new plants.