Thorny Devil Stick Insect

Distribution: New Caledonia, New Guinea and the Solomon Islands Size: Males ‒ approximately 12 cm, Females ‒ approximately 15 cm Lifespan: 12‒18 months Diet: Herbivorous Social life: Groups IUCN red list status: Not Evaluated The thorny devil stick insect (*Eurycantha calcarata*) inhabits forested areas rich in ground foliage, typically preferring environments with high humidity and warm temperatures. As adults, they are semi-terrestrial and possess coloration and patterns that mimic wood, leaves, or bark, providing effective camouflage from potential predators. Neither males nor females have wings, and females are slightly larger than males. Eggs are laid every six months, measuring around 3 to 4 mm in size. The female lays eggs using an ovipositor that resembles a stinger, though it is not used for defense. In addition to their camouflage, these insects form groups under bark or in tree hollows to protect themselves from predators such as birds, small mammals, ants and spiders. As a further defense mechanism, males have large femoral spines. When threatened, they raise their abdomens and position these spines defensively.