New Guinea Spiny Stick Insect
Eurycantha calcarata
Here at Banham Zoo
Also known as the giant spiny stick insect, this species is built for camouflage with a bulkier body than most stick insects. At Banham Zoo, they can be found inside the Discovery Centre, resting amongst leaves and bark during the day.
In the wild, they are native to New Guinea, where they spend most of their time hiding in trees and shrubs, emerging at night to feed.
Where Do I Live?
New Guinea
These stick insects are found in the trees and shrubs of the humid forests of New Guinea.
What Do I Eat?
All stick insects are herbivores feeding on a variety of leBird. Here at the zoo our stick insects feed mainly on bramble and ivy leBird.
How Do I Breed?
Females lay small, brown eggs into soil via their ovipositor, a long thin tube at the end of the body. These are incubated in the soil for several months.
Together, we protect wildlife
Conservation status
Not Evaluated (NE)
Not yet assessed for extinction risk.
The numbers of spiny stick insects have not been evaluated by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), but they are not believed to be endangered in the wild
Some Helpful Links
Where is the
New Guinea Spiny Stick Insect
located?
Our
New Guinea Spiny Stick Insect
is located in our
Zoo Central
, map reference
11
.
What’s the best time to see the animals?
The best time to see our animals is often during feeding times or in the cooler parts of the day when they are most active. Check our daily timetable for keeper talks and feeding sessions for an up-close look! Our habitat signage also includes helpful hints and tips to make the most of your visit.
How do you ensure the animals' welfare?
Animal welfare is our top priority. We provide species-specific habitats, enrichment activities, and expert veterinary care to ensure all our animals thrive.
