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Praying Mantis Enclosures

Enclosures for Praying Mantises

The enclosure plays a crucial role in the care and well-being of a praying mantis, serving as its habitat and safe space. Its primary purpose is to replicate the mantis’s natural environment as closely as possible, ensuring that the insect can exhibit its natural behaviours and thrive. A well-designed enclosure provides a controlled environment where factors such as temperature, humidity, and space can be managed to meet the specific needs of the mantis species being housed.

A properly constructed enclosure supports the mantis’s physical and psychological health. It should offer adequate space for movement, climbing, and hunting, all of which are essential for the mantis’s development and well-being. For arboreal species, vertical space and climbing structures are critical, while terrestrial species need a substrate that allows for burrowing and exploration. By mimicking the creatures natural habitat, the enclosure helps prevent stress and encourages natural behaviors, contributing to a happier and healthier mantis.

Furthermore, the enclosure facilitates effective management of environmental conditions, which are vital for the mantis’s survival. Proper humidity and temperature levels are crucial for maintaining health and supporting processes such as molting. The enclosure also aids in controlling factors like cleanliness and safety, ensuring that the mantis has access to fresh food and clean water while minimising the risk of disease or injury. Regular maintenance and monitoring of the enclosure help create a stable environment that supports the mantis’s long-term health and vitality.

FAQ'S About Enclosures

What size enclosure is suitable for a praying mantis?

The size of the enclosure depends on the species and the stage of development of the mantis. For nymphs (young mantises), a small terrarium or enclosure with dimensions of at least 6x6x8 inches is sufficient. As the mantis grows, it will require a larger enclosure. Adult mantises should have a minimum of 12x12x18 inches to allow for adequate space to move, climb, and exhibit natural behaviors. Ensure that the enclosure is tall enough to accommodate the mantis’s climbing habits, especially for arboreal species.

What kind of substrate should I use in a praying mantis enclosure?

Praying mantises generally do not require a specific substrate, but providing a suitable base can help with maintaining humidity and cleanliness. For terrestrial mantises, you can use a layer of substrate such as coconut fiber, peat moss, or paper towels. Arboreal mantises, which live in trees and plants in the wild, may not need any substrate but benefit from a clean, dry surface that is easy to maintain. Regularly clean the enclosure to prevent mold and mites.

How do I maintain proper humidity in a praying mantis enclosure?

Humidity requirements vary by species, but most mantises thrive in a moderately humid environment. To maintain proper humidity, you can use a hygrometer to monitor levels and adjust as needed. Mist the enclosure lightly with water once or twice a week to maintain humidity, but avoid over-misting, as excessive moisture can lead to mold. Provide a shallow water dish if necessary, ensuring it’s not deep enough for the mantis to drown.

What type of lighting is best for a praying mantis enclosure?

Praying mantises do not require special lighting, but providing a regular day/night cycle can help regulate their behavior. A simple room light or a low-wattage bulb on a timer to simulate natural daylight is usually sufficient. Ensure that the enclosure is not exposed to direct sunlight, which can overheat the habitat. Most mantises are nocturnal or crepuscular (active during twilight), so they may not need intense lighting.

How often should I clean the praying mantis enclosure?

Regular cleaning is important to maintain a healthy environment for your praying mantis. Remove uneaten food and waste from the enclosure every few days to prevent mold and pests. Clean the enclosure thoroughly once a month by removing all substrate and accessories, washing the interior with a mild disinfectant, and replacing the substrate. Ensure that everything is completely dry before reassembling the enclosure.

Can I keep multiple praying mantises in the same enclosure?

Keeping multiple praying mantises in the same enclosure is generally not recommended. Mantises are solitary and territorial by nature, and housing more than one mantis together can lead to aggression and cannibalism. Each mantis should have its own separate enclosure to prevent stress and potential harm. If you wish to observe multiple mantises, provide each with an individual habitat to ensure their well-being.

Premium Invert Enclosures – Designed and manufactured in-house.

Mantis N. I is a leading invert breeder and supplier in the UK. With many years experience, and three generations of family involved in the business, we have built a brand that you can place your trust in and you won’t be disappointed. Any issues, we have a dedicated team on social media offering round the clock assistance.

High-Quality Materials and Craftsmanship.

Every enclosure we offer is individually made by ourselves, in Lurgan NI from top-grade, non-toxic components suitable for housing living creatures, all materials surpass the EU standards. We use Plexiglass brand 3mm cast acrylic, which is durable, doesn’t warp or discolour, and gives a crystal clear finish combined with complete security. Our enclosures feature swivel mechanisms for hassle-free opening and unobstructed viewing. The acrylic is lightweight and much more streamlined than heavy glass enclosures.

All of our enclosures arrive flat-packed, this is to keep your postage costs down and minimize risk of damage during shipping. This also makes them easy to clean and convenient to store if uninhabited.

Huge range of products available

Creatures come in all shapes and sizes, and so do our enclosures! We don’t subscribe to a ‘one size fits all’ belief system here! While our enclosures are predominantly designed with Mantises, Tarantulas and Jumping Spiders in mind, there are plenty of other creatures they are great for, such as Isopods, Beetles, Scorpions and more.

From the tiny Micro enclosures, to the XL ‘Big One’ we have something to suit everything. Our arboreal enclosures are available with either mesh top or solid top, and these are easily interchangeable. We offer discounts on bulk orders.

Our range of different Perspex colours and finishes available is the biggest on the market, so your enclosures can be one of a kind and truly suited to you and your beloved pets. We offer engraved nameplates and various decor items for you to customize your creatures home.

These enclosures are designed to prioritise the safety and wellbeing of your creature. Full ventilation, deep substrate barriers and we are phasing out magnet closures in favour of the secure swivel lock mechanism. Although safety comes first, we pride ourselves on the aesthetics of our enclosures and love seeing the themes our customers go for.

We don’t just do enclosures, we sell substrates, hides, heat mats, hydrometers and all the other essential items you need to take the best care of your pets.

Ordering your enclosure

Feel free to contact us if you have any questions about ordering. If you cant find what you are looking for on our website, we may still be able to help. We’ve done custom builds for Leafcutters, Weaver Ants, Reptiles and even Frogs!

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