Bug Identifier
Two-striped walkingstick
Community identification

Two-striped walkingstick

Anisomorpha buprestoides

Order & Family
Order: Phasmatodea, Family: Pseudophasmatidae
Size
Typically ranges from 35 to 75 mm in length, with females being significantly larger than males.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found in wooded areas, forests, and scrublands, often living in trees and shrubs such as oak and palmetto.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous, feeding on the foliage of various trees and shrubs, particularly oaks.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal herbivores that rely on excellent camouflage, mimicking twigs and branches. When threatened, they can spray a noxious, irritating defensive chemical from glands on the thorax that can cause temporary eye pain or irritation if sprayed directly.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include a painful defensive chemical spray if handled roughly, which can cause temporary irritation to eyes and skin. Benefits include contributing to the woodland ecosystem as a food source for predators.