Quick Navigation
- Introduction
- Choosing Your First Mantis Enclosure
- Setting Up Your Mantis Home
- Species-Specific Requirements
- Environmental Control Systems
- Daily Care and Maintenance
- Feeding Your Mantis
- Health Monitoring
- Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Advanced Care Techniques
- Breeding Guide
- Travel and Transportation
- Emergency Care Protocols
- Resources and Community
- Frequently Asked Questions
PICTURE
Praying mantises are fascinating creatures that make unique and rewarding pets. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced keeper, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about mantis enclosures and care. From basic setup to advanced techniques, we’ve compiled expert knowledge to ensure your mantis thrives in captivity.
Choosing Your First Mantis Enclosure
What Type of Enclosure Does My Mantis Need?
The type of enclosure you choose depends on your mantis species, your budget, and your display preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the three main types:
Mesh Enclosures
Best for: Beginners and most mantis species
Pros:
- Excellent ventilation prevents moisture buildup and mold growth
- Natural airflow helps maintain appropriate humidity levels
- Superior climbing surface for mantids
- Easy for mantids to grip during molting
- Lightweight and portable
- Often collapsible for storage
Cons:
- May not retain humidity well in dry climates
- Less durable than solid enclosures
- Can be difficult to clean thoroughly
- May be damaged by feeder insects over time
Recommended sizes:
- Small mantis (under 2″): 8″x8″x12″
- Medium mantis (2-3″): 12″x12″x18″
- Large mantis (over 3″): 18″x18″x24″
Construction details:
- High-grade mesh (1mm-2mm holes)
- Lightweight aluminum frame
- Non-toxic coatings
- Reinforced seams
- Double-zipper access
- Reinforced corners
- Stable base plate
Glass Terrariums
Best for: Display and humidity-loving species
Pros:
- Superior humidity control
- Excellent visibility
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Durable and long-lasting
- Good protection from external factors
- Can create naturalistic setups
Cons:
- Heavier than mesh enclosures
- More expensive
- May have limited ventilation
- Can be harder for mantids to grip smooth surfaces
Recommended sizes:
- Small species: 8″x8″x12″
- Medium species: 12″x12″x18″
- Large species: 18″x18″x24″
Construction requirements:
- Tempered glass panels
- Silicone-sealed joints
- Front-opening design
- Ventilated top
- Minimum height: 3x mantis length
- Minimum width: 2x mantis length
- Door size: 75% of front
- Ventilation area: 30% of top
DIY Containers
Best for: Budget setups and temporary housing
Pros:
- Cost-effective
- Customizable
- Readily available
- Lightweight
- Good for temporary housing
- Easy to replace
Cons:
- Requires modifications
- May not last long-term
- Less aesthetic appeal
- Limited size options
- Can be less aesthetically pleasing
Material selection:
- Food-grade plastic
- Clear acrylic
- Glass containers
- BPA-free materials
Modification requirements:
- Ventilation holes pattern (at least 1/4 of surface area)
- Access point creation
- Drainage system
- Climbing surface addition
- Non-toxic materials
- Secure lid
- Appropriate climbing surfaces
- Proper substrate
Setting Up Your Mantis Home
Basic Construction Requirements
Size Guidelines
The minimum enclosure size should follow these rules:
- Height: 3x the mantis’s length
- Width: 2x the mantis’s length
- Depth: 2x the mantis’s length
Specific recommendations by life stage:
- Nymphs (L1-L3): 4″x4″x6″
- Sub-adults: 6″x6″x12″
- Adults: 8″x8″x12″ or larger
- Breeding pairs: 12″x12″x18″
Ventilation Systems
Proper ventilation is crucial for mantis health:
- Top mesh covering 50-75% of lid
- Mesh size: 1mm-2mm holes
- Material: Stainless steel or fiberglass
- Side ventilation panels for air circulation
- Cross-ventilation for humidity control
- Minimum 2 panels (2″x2″ for medium enclosures)
- Position: Upper third of enclosure
Access Points
Easy access is important for maintenance:
- Primary door: Front-opening preferred
- Minimum size: 75% of front face
- Secure latch system
- Feeding ports: 1-2 inches in diameter
- Position: Upper third of enclosure
- Secure plug or cover
Internal Setup
Substrate Options
The right substrate creates proper humidity and cleanliness:
Coconut fiber:
- Great moisture retention
- Natural appearance
- Mold resistant
- Easy to replace
Sphagnum moss:
- Excellent humidity control
- Natural appearance
- Long-lasting
- Antimicrobial properties
Paper towels:
- Easy to replace
- Good for monitoring health
- Inexpensive
- Best for nymphs
Bioactive mix:
- Self-sustaining ecosystem
- Natural appearance
- Reduced maintenance
- Enrichment for mantis
Depth recommendations:
- Basic setup: 1-2 inches
- Tropical setups: 2-3 inches
- Arid setups: 0.5-1 inch
- Bioactive: 3-4 inches
Climbing Structure Installation
Proper climbing surfaces are essential:
- Place main branch diagonally (ensures multiple climbing angles)
- Add 2-3 smaller branches intersecting main branch
- Secure all branches against enclosure walls
- Test stability by gently shaking enclosure
- Add mesh strips along walls
- Install vertical bark strips
- Create twig lattice structure
- Secure all elements with aquarium-safe silicone
Plant Installation
Plants provide hiding spots and moisture retention:
- Add 1-2 artificial plants near the top
- Include broad-leafed plants for water droplet collection
- Ensure plants don’t block ventilation
- Secure all plants firmly
Final Additions
Complete your setup with:
- Small water dish (1-inch diameter) in corner
- Thermometer/hygrometer placement
- Mist lightly to achieve proper humidity
- Allow 24 hours to stabilize before adding mantis
Species-Specific Requirements
Tropical Species
Ghost Mantis (Phyllocrania paradoxa)
- Enclosure size: 12″x12″x18″ minimum
- Temperature: 75-85°F
- Humidity: 70-80%
- Special needs:
- Dense foliage coverage (60-70%)
- Vertical climbing space
- Regular misting
- Bark-like surfaces
- Multiple thin branches
- Hanging spots for molting
- Irregular branch patterns
- Protected resting areas
- High ventilation despite humidity
Giant Asian Mantis (Hierodula membranacea)
- Enclosure size: 18″x18″x24″ minimum
- Temperature: 75-85°F
- Humidity: 60-80%
- Special needs:
- Strong climbing structures
- Multiple territory levels
- Large hunting areas
- Sturdy branches
- Open hunting areas
- Broad leaves for water collection
- Basking opportunities
- Multiple horizontal branches
Desert Species
Arizona Unicorn Mantis (Pseudovates arizonae)
- Enclosure size: 12″x12″x18″ minimum
- Temperature: 80-90°F (basking spot 90-95°F)
- Humidity: 30-40%
- Special needs:
- Enhanced ventilation (40-50% of surface)
- Arid substrate mix
- Vertical rock features
- Sparse vegetation (30-40% coverage)
- Additional air holes near bottom
- Mesh top for maximum airflow
- Reduced substrate depth
- Rocky outcroppings
- Basking opportunities
Ground Mantis (Eremiaphila sp.)
- Enclosure size: 12″x8″x8″ minimum
- Temperature: 85-95°F
- Humidity: 20-30%
- Special needs:
- Sandy substrate
- Low vegetation
- Hot basking area
- Multiple hides
- Minimal climbing structures
- Strong ventilation
- Dry environment
- Natural-colored substrate
Bark-Dwelling Species
- Surface textures:
- Cork bark panels on walls
- Rough-textured climbing surfaces
- Vertical bark strips
- Natural wood pieces
- Layout design:
- Vertical orientation emphasis
- Multiple bark layers
- Minimal ground space
- Crevice-like hideouts
Environmental Control Systems
Temperature Management
Heating Systems
Choose the right heating equipment:
- Ceramic heat emitters (no light disruption)
- Heat lamps (creates basking spot)
- Heat mats (external mounting only)
- Temperature controllers (for precision)
Temperature requirements:
- Daytime: 75-85°F (24-29°C)
- Nighttime: 65-75°F (18-24°C)
- Basking spot: 88-90°F (31-32°C)
Monitoring Equipment
Ensure proper temperature with:
- Digital thermometers (for ambient temperature)
- Infrared guns (for spot checking)
- Data loggers (for tracking patterns)
- Alert systems (for emergencies)
- Temperature gun for spot checking
- Thermal gradient monitoring
Humidity Control
Species-Specific Ranges
Different species require different humidity levels:
- Desert species: 30-50%
- Temperate species: 50-70%
- Tropical species: 70-90%
Humidity Methods
Maintain proper humidity with:
- Misting systems (manual or automatic)
- Humidifiers with directional tubing
- Evaporation pools
- Moisture-retaining substrates
- Daily misting schedule
- Ventilation management
- Water dishes where appropriate
Daily Care and Maintenance
Morning Routine
Start each day with these tasks:
- Temperature check (verify within species range)
- Humidity verification (adjust if needed)
- Remove uneaten prey (prevents mold)
- Fresh water provision (if species requires)
- Health observation (check position and behavior)
- Check for molting preparation
- Adjust ventilation if needed
- Look for signs of stress or illness
Evening Routine
End each day with:
- Spot cleaning (remove waste)
- Environment adjustment (night temperature)
- Feeding (if on evening schedule)
- Security check (enclosure secure)
- Misting (if humidity needs adjustment)
- Check for unusual behavior
- Verify heating equipment function
- Make notes of any concerns
Weekly Maintenance
Deep Cleaning
Perform these tasks weekly:
- Remove and clean decorations
- Replace substrate surface layer
- Clean glass/mesh surfaces
- Disinfect water dishes
- Check for mold or pests
- Clean ventilation mesh
- Inspect for damage
- Rotate decorations if desired
Health Monitoring
Keep track of your mantis’s health:
- Weight tracking (if possible)
- Behavior assessment
- Molting preparation (watch for signs)
- Feeding response (appetite changes)
- Activity level evaluation
- Position preferences
- Coloration changes
- Interaction with environment
Monthly Tasks
Complete Substrate Change
Every month, perform a deeper clean:
- Remove all substrate
- Clean bottom thoroughly
- Replace with fresh substrate
- Check drainage system
- Inspect for hidden issues
- Verify structure integrity
- Deep clean all surfaces
- Evaluate upgrade needs
System Verification
Verify all systems monthly:
- Test all modifications
- Verify temperature gradient
- Check humidity control
- Inspect for wear points
- Test electronics
- Verify seal integrity
- Check structural stability
- Assess ventilation efficiency
Feeding Your Mantis
Prey Selection
Choose appropriate prey items:
- Fruit flies (for nymphs)
- House flies (for juveniles)
- Blue bottle flies (for adults)
- Crickets (appropriately sized)
- Roaches (dusted with supplements)
- Moths (occasional treat)
- Mealworms (occasional)
- Waxworms (high-fat treat)
Feeding Schedule
Adjust based on age and species:
- Nymphs: Every 1-2 days
- Juveniles: Every 2-3 days
- Adults: Every 2-4 days
- Pregnant females: Every 1-2 days
- Molting individuals: Skip 24-48 hours before and after
Feeding Techniques
Proper feeding ensures health:
- Use feeding tongs for larger prey
- Drop flies directly into enclosure
- Monitor consumption
- Remove uneaten prey within 24 hours
- Gut load feeders for nutrition
- Dust with calcium supplement occasionally
- Provide varied diet when possible
- Adjust quantity based on abdomen size
Health Monitoring
Signs of a Healthy Mantis
A healthy mantis will display:
- Alert posture
- Active movement
- Regular feeding
- Successful molting
- Clear eyes
- Normal coloration
- Responsive to stimulus
- Proper weight
Warning Signs
Watch for these concerning symptoms:
- Refusal to eat
- Difficulty molting
- Unusual posture
- Discoloration
- Lethargy
- Falling frequently
- Damaged limbs
- Abnormal abdomen size
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Poor Humidity Control
Solutions:
- Check ventilation (adjust if needed)
- Adjust substrate moisture (mist or replace)
- Modify misting schedule (increase/decrease)
- Add/remove moisture barriers
- Consider automated humidifier
- Replace hygrometer if readings seem off
- Add plants for natural humidity
- Create humidity gradient
Temperature Issues
Solutions:
- Verify heating equipment (replace if failing)
- Check thermostat function (calibrate if needed)
- Adjust placement (move away from drafts)
- Monitor gradients (ensure proper range)
- Add insulation if needed
- Create proper air flow
- Consider backup systems
- Use timer-controlled heating
Feeding Problems
Solutions:
- Vary prey items (try different species)
- Check prey size (should be appropriate)
- Adjust feeding schedule (may need more/less frequent)
- Monitor hunting behavior (ensure ability to catch)
- Pre-kill prey if necessary
- Consider health issues
- Create better hunting environment
- Check for molting preparation
Advanced Care Techniques
Bioactive Setup
Create a self-sustaining ecosystem:
Drainage Layer
- Hydroballs or LECA (1-2 inches)
- Mesh barrier (prevents substrate mixing)
- Charcoal layer (prevents odors)
- Proper depth (allows excess water runoff)
Substrate Mix
- Organic soil (60%)
- Coconut fiber (30%)
- Sphagnum moss (10%)
- Sand (if needed for arid setups)
Cleanup Crew
Introduce beneficial organisms:
- Springtails (consume mold)
- Isopods (break down waste)
- Beneficial mites (control pests)
- Earthworms (aerate substrate)
Plant Selection
Choose appropriate live plants:
- Pothos (low light tolerant)
- Air plants (minimal soil needs)
- Small ferns (high humidity setups)
- Succulents (arid setups)
- Moss (humidity retention)
Automated Systems
Upgrade with technology:
Climate Control
Essential components:
- Programmable thermostat (maintains temperature)
- Humidity controller (triggers misting)
- Misting system (automated spray)
- Ventilation fans (control air flow)
- Light timers (day/night cycle)
- Backup power supply
- Temperature gradient creation
- Emergency shutoff systems
Monitoring Systems
Track conditions with:
- Temperature sensors (multiple locations)
- Humidity probes (various heights)
- Data loggers (track patterns)
- Alert systems (notify of problems)
- Remote monitoring (app-connected)
- Video observation
- Light sensors
- Air flow meters
Breeding Guide
Breeding Setup Requirements
Female Housing
Prepare for successful breeding:
- Extra space for movement
- Ootheca attachment points
- Stable temperature
- Proper humidity
- Extra protein in diet
- Multiple territory levels
- Secure attachment points
- Reduced stress environment
Male Housing
Males have different needs:
- Smaller space acceptable
- Extra ventilation
- Escape prevention
- Stress reduction
- Energy-rich diet
- Easy access design
- Observation capacity
- Temperature control
Breeding Process
Introduction Methods
Careful introduction is essential:
- Neutral territory (new enclosure)
- Temperature control (75-80°F ideal)
- Timing considerations (early day)
- Safety measures (escape prevention)
- Visual isolation until ready
- Size matching importance
- Adequate space provision
- Emergency separation ability
Post-Breeding Care
After successful breeding:
- Female nutrition (increased feeding)
- Ootheca protection (proper attachment)
- Environmental control (stable conditions)
- Nymph preparation (separate enclosure)
- Monitoring health (both specimens)
- Heat and humidity adjustments
- Documentation of process
- Isolation of female
Travel and Transportation
Temporary Housing
For short-term movement:
Container Requirements
- Size specifications (3x body length minimum)
- Ventilation needs (multiple holes)
- Security features (escape-proof)
- Temperature control (insulation)
- Impact protection (padding)
- Observation capability
- Stability during movement
- Easy access if needed
Setup Essentials
Simplify for travel:
- Minimal substrate (paper towel base)
- Essential furnishings (one climbing surface)
- Water provision (moist cotton ball)
- Stress reduction (dark container)
- Secure lid system
- Ventilation verification
- Proper labeling
- Emergency contact info
Environmental Control During Travel
Temperature Management
Keep your mantis safe:
- Heating options (heat packs for cold)
- Cooling methods (ice packs with barrier)
- Monitoring systems (travel thermometer)
- Emergency procedures (backup plans)
- Insulation methods
- Vehicle climate control
- Time of day considerations
- Duration limitations
Humidity Maintenance
Maintain proper moisture:
- Moisture retention (damp sponge)
- Ventilation balance (proper holes)
- Emergency hydration (water access)
- Monitoring methods (visual checks)
- Misting schedule adjustments
- Condensation prevention
- Recovery procedures
- Species-specific considerations
Emergency Care Protocols
Medical Emergency Kit
Essential supplies:
- Sterile containers
- Soft brushes
- Honey solution
- Distilled water
- Cotton swabs
- Small dropper
- Tweezers
- Emergency contact list
- Non-adhesive gauze
- Disinfectant (safe for invertebrates)
- Small heating pad
- Isolation container
Common Health Issues
Molting Problems
Signs and treatment:
- Stuck in old exoskeleton
- Twisted limbs
- Prolonged molting time
- Unusual positioning
Emergency response:
- Increase humidity (80-90%)
- Maintain stable temperature (80-85°F)
- Avoid disturbance (complete isolation)
- Monitor closely (check hourly)
- Provide vertical surface
- Create proper space
- Prepare for limb loss
- Consider euthanasia for severe cases
Injury Treatment
Common injuries and first aid:
- Falling damage
- Limb loss
- Eye problems
- Mouth injuries
First aid steps:
- Isolate in clean container
- Maintain optimal conditions
- Provide easy access to water
- Consider honey solution for energy
- Reduce enclosure height
- Monitor healing progress
- Adjust feeding methods
- Prepare for next molt
Dehydration
Signs and treatment:
- Shriveled appearance
- Lethargy
- Poor skin elasticity
- Failure to eat
Recovery steps:
- Increase ambient humidity
- Provide water droplets
- Offer diluted honey water
- Reduce temperature slightly
- Monitor fluid intake
- Adjust ventilation
- Check for underlying causes
- Gradual rehydration process
Resources and Community
Essential Equipment
Basic tools every keeper needs:
- Feeding tongs
- Spray bottle
- Cleaning supplies
- Monitoring devices
- Emergency supplies
- Backup heating
- Breeding equipment
- Documentation system
Professional Support
Available resources:
- Exotic veterinarians (specialized in invertebrates)
- Online communities (forums and social media)
- Expert consultations (experienced breeders)
- Care guides (species-specific)
- Local clubs and societies
- Educational workshops
- Conservation organizations
- Research publications
Frequently Asked Questions
General Enclosure Questions
Q: What’s the minimum size enclosure for a praying mantis? A: The minimum size should be 3x the mantis’s length in height and 2x in width and depth. For most species, this means at least 8″x8″x12″.
Q: Can I keep multiple mantids in one enclosure? A: Most mantis species are cannibalistic and should be housed separately. Only a few species can be housed communally, and even then only with caution.
Q: How often should I clean the enclosure? A: Spot clean daily, do partial substrate changes weekly, and perform a complete cleaning monthly.
Q: What’s the best enclosure type for beginners? A: Mesh enclosures provide excellent ventilation and climbing surfaces, making them ideal for most beginner-friendly species.
Feeding and Nutrition
Q: How often should I feed my mantis? A: Nymphs should be fed every 1-2 days, juveniles every 2-3 days, and adults every 2-4 days.
Q: What happens if my mantis refuses food? A: First check if it’s preparing to molt (they don’t eat 24-48 hours before and after). If not, ensure proper temperature, try different prey, or consult an expert.
Q: Can mantises eat dead prey? A: Most mantises prefer live prey, but some will accept pre-killed prey if moved with feeding tongs to simulate movement.
Environmental Control
Q: How do I maintain proper humidity? A: Use moisture-retaining substrate, mist regularly according to species needs, monitor with a hygrometer, and adjust ventilation as needed.
Q: What temperature is too hot/cold for mantises? A: Most species become stressed below 65°F or above 95°F. Each species has its own ideal range, typically between 75-85°F.
Health and Wellness
Q: How can I tell if my mantis is about to molt? A: Signs include reduced appetite, color changes, stillness, and taking a hanging position. The eyes may also appear dull or cloudy.
Q: What should I do if my mantis loses a limb? A: Mantises can regenerate limbs over several molts. Keep the enclosure clean, provide optimal conditions, and ensure easy feeding.
Q: How long do mantises live? A: Lifespan varies by species, but generally 6-12 months for males and 8-14 months for females after reaching adulthood.
Expert Tips and Tricks
Pro Tips for Successful Mantis Keeping
- Use black silicone for sealing enclosures – it’s less visible
- Install feeding ports for easier prey introduction
- Create multiple temperature zones for optimal comfort
- Use magnetic closures for convenient access
- Photograph your enclosure setup for future reference
- Keep detailed records of molts and behaviors
- Develop relationships with breeders for specimen acquisition
- Join online communities for support and advice
Photography Tips
For capturing your mantis:
- Use macro lenses for detailed shots
- Provide proper lighting without flash
- Photograph through clear sections of enclosure
- Capture molting process (without disturbing)
- Document growth with regular photos
- Create time-lapse of interesting behaviors
- Consider a dedicated photo setup
- Share your images with the community
Conclusion
Mantis keeping is a rewarding hobby that combines biology, design, and animal husbandry. By providing the proper enclosure and care, you’ll create an environment where your mantis can thrive. Remember to research your specific species requirements, monitor conditions regularly, and enjoy observing these fascinating predators. With patience and attention to detail, you’ll create a perfect habitat for your mantis companions.