Furry family members are expensive to care for, and if you’re looking for a less expensive pet, insect pets could be a great option. Why not look into getting an insect to have a different kind of pet? Insects can make great pets! They’re low maintenance, affordable, and so fun to watch.
Owning an insect can be a wonderful addition to any family. Insects make great family pets and there are many to choose from, including: Jumping Spiders, Tarantulas, Praying Mantis, Millipedes, Scorpions or Ants
Many people think insects are gross and terrifying, but insects make great pets. They require less maintenance than other pets and don’t require as much space. With proper care, these exotic pets can live for years.
Some people worry that having insects as pets makes their kids more likely to become allergic. Insects don’t make kids more likely to become allergic to animals. In fact, the opposite is true. Having insects as pets can make kids less prone to allergies. Because they’re exposed to fewer allergens than kids who are around dogs, cats, and other common pets.
When you ask most families if they would consider adopting and caring for an insect, the most common answer will be “no way.” However, these families are missing out on a pet that is fun, interesting, and a whole lot of fun to watch.
Following is a guide to some of the most popular varieties of insects and their associated costs and care requirements:
Tarantulas
Tarantulas are a unique and fascinating pet that can make an excellent addition to any family. They have been kept as pets for centuries, and they are becoming increasingly popular today.
Tarantulas belong to the Theraphosidae family of spiders, which includes more than 900 species. They come in a variety of sizes, colors, and shapes, so there is sure to be one that fits your needs.
Tarantulas are arachnids that are native to the Americas and Europe, and are usually found in tropical climates. The only ones we’ll be discussing here will be new world Tarantulas (ones from the Americas, because they’re far less aggressive and dangerous as pets). They are not venomous, and are relatively harmless to humans.
Tarantulas are relatively easy to care for, making them a great choice for first time pet owners. They require minimal space and can be kept in a terrarium or aquarium with proper ventilation. Tarantulas should be fed live insects such as crickets, mealworms, and waxworms.
Tarantulas are very docile animals, and are generally considered safe for children, as long as they’re not holding them. They are also very easy to care for. They don’t require much food, and will eat insects and smaller living food.
Tarantulas are also very quiet, and won’t disturb you while you’re sleeping. You can even leave them alone for several days without worrying about them getting out of control.
Tarantulas can be many different colors, including black, brown, red, yellow, orange. You can find them in a number of different pet stores near you. Depending on the species of Tarantula you are after, some will cost as little as $25, and rarer species will run as high as $150!
Tarantulas make great family pets because they are relatively docile and don’t require a lot of attention. They’re low maintenance and don’t require a lot of cleaning or upkeep.
In conclusion, Tarantulas are a great choice for first time pet owners who want something unique and interesting. They require minimal space and care, and they make great family pets. So if you’re looking for an unusual pet that is low maintenance and full of personality, then a tarantula might be just what you’re looking for.
Praying Mantis
Praying Mantis are a unique and fascinating species of insect that can make great family pets. They have long, slender bodies with large eyes and two raptorial forelegs that they use to catch their prey. Praying Mantis come in a variety of colors, from green to brown to pink, and they can grow up to four inches in length.
If you’re considering getting a Praying Mantis as a pet, you may be wondering what they’re like and if they’re the right pet for you. Praying Mantis are relatively easy to care for, and they can make great family pets. They’re also quite interesting to watch, as they move around their enclosure with grace and agility.
Praying Mantis are a rather large insect that can be found throughout most of the world. It’s thought that they originated in Europe and then were brought to other countries including the US more than 100 years ago. They are commonly found in wooded areas, but can be found near open areas as well.
Praying Mantises are very territorial, and will attack other insects that threaten their home. They are not aggressive towards humans, and will usually only bite if provoked.
Praying Mantis are solitary creatures, so they don’t need to be kept with other animals. They also don’t require a lot of space, as they can live comfortably in a small enclosure. They do need a warm and humid environment, however, so you’ll need to provide them with the right kind of habitat.
They eat crickets, grasshoppers, caterpillars, and similar insects. They often will stalk their prey and wait until it’s close to them before latching onto it and sucking out the insides. Praying mantis are often considered to be the perfect pets because they don’t need a lot of care or cleaning. They are messy eaters, and still need their home cleaned after they eat.
Praying Mantis are fascinating creatures, and will provide hours of entertainment for children. They are a perfect companion for someone who enjoys nature.
They are relatively inexpensive, costing around $1 per egg. If you want a lot of eggs they are available online at about $10 per 50 live Mantises.
If you’re looking for a unique pet that is both interesting and low-maintenance, then a Praying Mantis may be the perfect choice for you. They are fascinating creatures to watch , and they can make great family pets. With the right care and attention, your Praying Mantis will be a loyal companion for years to come.
Overall, Praying Mantises can make great family pets if you’re willing to put in the time and effort to care for them properly. They are fascinating creatures to watch, and they can provide hours of entertainment. So, if you’re looking for a unique pet that is both interesting and low-maintenance, then a Praying Mantis may be the perfect choice for you.
Jumping Spiders
Are you looking for a unique pet that will bring joy and entertainment to your home? If so, then you should consider getting a Jumping Spider! These small, eight-legged creatures are becoming increasingly popular as family pets.
Jumping Spiders are members of the Salticidae family and are known for their ability to jump up to 50 times their own body length. They come in a variety of colors and sizes, ranging from a few millimeters to several centimeters in length.
Jumping Spiders are arachnids that are native to 6 of the 7 continents. They are one of the few spider species that can jump. They are small, very fast, and can jump through tight spaces.
Jumping Spiders are venomous, but their venom is too weak to have any impact on humans. Typically when they see people they will either run or jump away. This is one of the reasons why it’s difficult to take them out of their enclosure. Once they are out, because they’re so fast and small it can be difficult to find them if they start jumping.
Jumping Spiders are active during the day and prefer to live in warm, humid environments. They make great pets because they don’t require much maintenance or care. All you need is a small terrarium with some substrate, like peat moss or vermiculite, and some hiding places like rocks or bark.
Children love to watch them jump in their enclosure. Finding them can be a fun challenge too! Jumping Spiders love having a hiding spot where they can rest safely, it’s always best to start looking for them in their hiding spot.
Jumping Spiders are very easy to care for, and only need a basic cleaning. They can be kept in a terrarium, or even in a regular home aquarium. They eat many different bugs that are smaller than they are, and don’t need to be fed everyday.
Jumping Spiders aren’t too expensive, unless you consider their short lifespans. Typically a tiny Jumping Spider for around $10, and larger ones will cost between $20 and $30 from most sites online.
Jumping Spiders are also quite easy to feed. They eat small insects like fruit flies, crickets, and moths. You can buy these insects from pet stores or online. It’s important to make sure you provide your spider with a variety of food sources so they get all the nutrients they need.
If you’re looking for a unique pet that is low maintenance and entertaining, then a Jumping Spider might be the perfect choice for you! They are fascinating creatures that will bring joy and excitement to your home. Plus, they make great companions for first time pet owners. So why not give one a try?
African Giant Millipedes
Are you looking for a unique pet to add to your family? African Giant Millipedes may be the perfect fit! These fascinating creatures are native to tropical Africa and can grow up to 8 inches in length. They are not only interesting to look at, but they also make great pets for first time owners.
African Giant Millipedes are native to Africa, and are one of the largest invertebrates found there. They can grow up to 15 inches long! They are not aggressive or dangerous to humans, and will usually avoid contact with people. They are herbivores, eating mostly fruits and vegetables.
African Giant Millipedes are nocturnal animals, so they will spend most of their time hiding during the day and coming out to explore at night. They are not aggressive and won’t bite, so they make a great pet for children. They can be kept in a terrarium or aquarium with some substrate such as soil, coconut fiber, or peat moss.
African Giant Millipedes are very slow moving pets, and will take several years to mature. They are not territorial, and can live peacefully with other Millipedes. They are very sensitive to temperature changes, and will die quickly if exposed to cold temperatures.
African Giant Millipedes are relatively easy to maintain. They don’t need much food, and will eat most fruits or vegetables. They are very quiet, and most of the time you won’t even know that they’re there. They are very gentle, and won’t bite or scratch anyone. They are also very calm, and won’t react aggressively to loud noises. If you were looking for something different that won’t bother your neighbors, and was always doing something interesting, an African Giant Millipede might be a good insect for your family.
African Giant Millipedes are a great pet for first time owners because they are easy to care for and require minimal attention. They can be handled gently, but should not be squeezed too tightly as this could cause them harm. They also make great conversation starters and can provide hours of entertainment as you watch them explore their environment.
Overall, African Giant Millipedes make great family pets and can provide hours of entertainment and education. They are low maintenance and require minimal care, making them the perfect pet for first time owners. So if you’re looking for a unique pet to add to your family, consider an African Giant Millipede!
Scorpions
Scorpions are an interesting and unique creature that can make a great pet for first time pet owners. They belong to the arachnid family, which includes spiders, mites, and ticks. Scorpions have been around since prehistoric times and are found in many parts of the world.
Scorpions are one of the most common types of arachnids found in the United States. Because they are arachnids it means that they’re related to spiders. They are sometimes kept as pets, but that doesn’t mean that they won’t be aggressive. They’re venomous, and will sting if given the opportunity. The only good thing is that most will only cause a mild reaction with adults.
Scorpions come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors. The most common type of scorpion is the Emperor Scorpion, which is black in color and can grow up to 8 inches long. Other types of scorpions include the Desert Hairy Scorpion, which is yellowish-brown in color and can reach lengths of up to 4 inches, and the Arizona Bark Scorpion, which is light brown in color and can reach lengths of up to 3 inches.
Scorpions are relatively easy to care for, and require little maintenance. They adapt well in a home environment and will do well in an aquarium. The good news is that this is one of the most quiet pets you’ll ever own.
Because they sting in defense, and children will react more with a Scorpions venom, they’re not exactly child friendly. If you have children that will enjoy watching them through the glass they can be excellent pets, but they’ll never be a hands-on family pet.
Pet Scorpions can be purchased from pet stores, and are relatively inexpensive to buy. Scorpions can be found at reptile pet stores or from online sellers, depending on their type they can be a variety of colors and sizes. Depending on the species they’ll cost between $15 and $35 for the more common ones, and around $70 for the rarer types.
When it comes to handling scorpions, it is important to use caution. Scorpions have a venomous sting that can be painful and even dangerous if not treated properly. It is best to use tweezers or gloves when handling them, and to avoid touching their tail.
Scorpions are also relatively low maintenance pets. They don’t need to be fed every day, just once or twice a week. It is important to provide them with a variety of insects such as crickets, mealworms, and waxworms.
Scorpions can make great pets for first time pet owners. They are relatively low maintenance and do not require much in terms of care or attention. Additionally, they are fascinating creatures that can provide hours of entertainment. If you are looking for an interesting and unique pet, then a scorpion may be the perfect choice for you.
Overall, scorpions can make great family pets for first time pet owners. They are fascinating creatures that require minimal care and attention, and can provide hours of entertainment. With proper care and handling, scorpions can be a great addition to any home.
Ants
Ants are an incredibly popular pet choice for first time pet owners, and with good reason. Not only are they relatively low maintenance, but they can also provide hours of entertainment. Ants are members of the family Formicidae, and come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors.
When it comes to caring for ants as pets, there are a few things to consider . First, you’ll need to decide what type of ant you’d like to keep. There are many species of ants available, from the common black garden ant to the more exotic fire ant. You’ll also need to consider the size of your enclosure and the type of food you’ll be providing for your ants.
Ants are a very popular pet choice for families that are looking to have a small pet that doesn’t take up much of their time. While ants may seem like a strange pet choice, they are actually very intelligent and social creatures that make great pets for those looking for something small and easy to take care of.
They’re easy to take care of, their needs are few, in most cases they only need a little bit of food and a few drops of water every few days. They’re relatively cheap to take care of, they don’t make a mess in your home, and they’ll never be noisy.
Kids love them because it’s something they can watch for hours at a time, and each day they’ll see new additions to their Ants’ homes as tunnels are dug. Ants are very forgiving pets because even if they’re not given food every day, they’ll still survive as long as they’re otherwise well taken care of.
Because Ants are found just about anywhere, the start-up costs are low for keeping Ants as a pet. You’ll be able to catch as many as you need by catching them outside of an Ant hill. Because they eat just about anything including cooking scraps, feeding them will cost next to nothing as well.
It can be incredibly rewarding to watch your ants interact with each other and observe their behavior. With a little patience and dedication, you can learn a lot about these amazing creatures.
Caring for ants as pets can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Not only will you get to observe their fascinating behaviors, but you’ll also get to provide them with the care and attention they need to thrive. So why not give it a try?
Stick Insects
Are you looking for a unique pet that is easy to care for and doesn’t require a lot of space? Stick Insects might be the perfect pet for you!
Stick Insects, also known as walking sticks, are an interesting and unusual type of insect. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, with some species growing up to 12 inches in length. Stick Insects are found in many parts of the world, including Australia, New Zealand, Southeast Asia, and Africa.
Stick Insects are usually found in tropical climates, and are native to every continent except Antarctica. Their natural camouflage makes them hard for their predators to detect, but even when they are found many still have other defenses they can use to escape.
Beyond how they look, they can be a lot of fun to watch if you can find them. Sometimes it can be difficult to spot them while they’re in their enclosure.
Stick Insects are very docile, and are unlikely to bite or sting. They are also very easy to care for. Stick Insect eggs can be bought online or from breeders, and raise them yourself. This is a fun way to teach kids about biology.
Stick insects can be fed a variety of foods, but they mostly enjoy eating leaves. It won’t be a bad idea to grow some of their favorites. This way they can be fed all year long without needing to track down fresh leaves in the winter.
Despite what most people think they are actually fairly easy to care for. Fresh leaves and a good home with some sticks to climb is all they need to be happy and healthy Insects. Stick Insects can be bought for between $10 and $50 for as many as 50 Stick Insects. Some sites may charge more, but be careful not to overpay for them.
Stick Insects make great family pets because they are easy to care for and don’t require a lot of space. They can live in a small terrarium or aquarium with some branches and leaves for them to climb on. They also need a shallow dish of water and some food, such as fresh vegetables or fruit.
When it comes to feeding, Stick Insects are omnivores and will eat a variety of fruits and vegetables. They also enjoy eating leaves from certain plants, such as bramble or ivy. It’s important to make sure that the food you provide is fresh and free from pesticides.
Stick Insects are fascinating creatures that can be great family pets. They don’t require a lot of space or special care, and they can be a great way to introduce children to the world of insects. If you’re looking for an interesting pet that is easy to care for, Stick Insects might be the perfect choice for you!
Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches
Are you looking for a unique pet that is low maintenance and easy to care for? If so, then the Madagascar Hissing Cockroach may be the perfect pet for you!
The Madagascar Hissing Cockroach (Gromphadorhina portentosa) is a species of large cockroach native to the island of Madagascar. They are one of the largest species of cockroach in the world, reaching up to 3 inches in length. They are also one of the loudest insects, producing a hissing sound when disturbed.
Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches are not fast runners, and can’t jump very far. The thing they are very good at is climbing walls, even glass walls in their cage. Many families put petroleum jelly at the top 1” of their enclosure to keep them from being able to climb out.
Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches are very docile, and are not aggressive towards people. They’re very active, and can be a lot of fun for children to watch. They are also very curious, and enjoy exploring their environment.
These fascinating creatures have been kept as pets for centuries and are becoming increasingly popular as family pets. They are easy to care for and require minimal space, making them an ideal pet for those with limited living space.
The Madagascar Hissing Cockroach is an omnivore, meaning it eats both plant and animal matter. In captivity, they can be fed a variety of foods including fruits, vegetables, and commercial cockroach food.
They are very easy to care for, and require little maintenance. One of the best things about these cockroaches is that they can’t survive outside of their enclosure in a family home. Even if they manage to escape their enclosure there is no risk of an infestation because they don’t eat garbage or drink dirty water.
Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches are easy to find at reptile shops because they’re often used as feeder insects for reptiles. They’re also sold on Amazon. They’re not very expensive and you should be able to get 50 to 100 for around $10 to $15.
These unique creatures are also known for their distinctive hissing sound, which is made by forcing air through their spiracles (breathing holes). This sound is used to communicate with other cockroaches and can be heard up to several feet away.
Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches make great pets for those looking for a low maintenance pet that is easy to care for . They require minimal space and can be kept in groups, making them an ideal pet for those with limited living space. They are also fascinating to watch and their hissing sound is sure to captivate anyone who hears it!
Leaf Insects
Are you looking for a unique pet that will bring some excitement to your home? Leaf Insects may be the perfect choice! These fascinating creatures are part of the Phasmatodea family and have been kept as pets for centuries.
Leaf Insects, also known as walking leaves, are one of the most interesting insects in the world. They get their name from their ability to camouflage themselves as leaves. They have flattened bodies and long legs that help them blend in with their surroundings.
Leaf Insects are tiny creatures that live in trees and shrubs. They are thought to originate in Southern Asia as well as the Pacific and Indian Oceans. Leaf Insects are also a great addition to your family because they’re very easy to take care of. Most Leaf Insects are pretty low maintenance pets, requiring minimal human attention.
Leaf Insects are surprisingly easy to care for, making them a great choice for first time pet owners. They require minimal space and can be kept in a terrarium or other small enclosure. All they need is a few inches of soil, some branches, and plenty of foliage to hide in.
Most Leaf Insects are harmless to humans, but there are some species that may bite. Leaf Insects are very small, and are very easy to care for. They are very gentle, and will not harm you or your home. They are very quiet, and will rarely make noise unless disturbed.
Leaf Insects are one of the most rewarding pets to keep in your home and children love them. It can be a fun game to try to find where your Leaf Insect is hiding each day. Kids also love them because they’re so different from other types of insects, but still look familiar.
Leaf Insects can be purchased online or at local pet stores. You can expect to pay between $12 and $150 depending on the type of Leaf Insect you want, and the seller. It pays to shop around because the same type can be found online with a $25 range.
Leaf Insects are also very social creatures and can be kept in groups. They enjoy interacting with each other and will often form bonds with their owners. Watching them explore their environment and interact with one another is a great way to bond with your pet.
Overall, Leaf Insects make excellent family pets that are sure to bring some excitement into your home. They are easy to care for and require minimal space, making them a great choice for first time pet owners. With their unique camouflage abilities and social nature, Leaf Insects are sure to be a hit with the whole family!
Insect Cost Breakdown
| Bug Species | Size | Character Traits | Cost | Lifespan |
| Tarantulas | 5 – 8 inches | Tarantulas are slow moving and docile but may bite if threatened. | $20– $50 | Up to 20 years |
| Praying Mantis | 2 – 3 inches | Safe for human handling but aggressive with other insects | $6 – $25 | Up to 1 year |
| Jumping Spiders | Less than 1 inch | Not very social and don’t like being handled | $10 – $30 | 2 years |
| African Giant Millipedes | 7.5 – 12 inches | Slow moving and docile insects that can be handled | $30 – $100 | 7 – 10 years |
| Scorpions | 6 – 8 inches | Temperament differs based on sub-species with most being territorial and aggressive | $25 – $100 | 6 – 8 years |
| Ants | Less than 1 inch | Very active and organized insects that live in large colonies | $8 (for 60 ants) | Up to 4 years |
| Stick Insects | 4 – 5 inches | Still most of the day and active at night | $10– $40 | 1 year |
| Madagascar Hissing Cockroach | 4 – 6 feet | Calm and easy to handle | $2– $10 | Up to 5 years |
| Leaf Insect | 2 inches | Harmless and non-aggressive insects | $5– $15 | 1 year |
Cost of Keeping Insects
The cost of keeping an insect ranges from $150 to $500. Insects come in all sorts of sizes and their needs differ. The cost of keeping different species will vary based on the type of enclosure they need and their care needs.
Here is a table showing the cost of things an insect needs:
| Item | Cost |
| Insect | $5 – $100 |
| Cage | $50 – $150 depending on size |
| Reptile Heating Mats | $5 – $25 |
| Decorations and Furniture | $50 – $150 |
| Bedding | $15 – $40 annually |
| Food | $20 – $55 yearly |
General Information
Insects are popular pets that don’t require a lot of time and are easy to care for. Insects are fairly inexpensive and easy to get. They are available at your local pet stores or can be caught in your backyard, depending on where you live.
They are small creatures that are only a centimeter to a few inches long. Their body generally has three sections, a head, thorax and an abdomen. Most insects have 3 sets of legs but there are some insects like Millipedes that have hundreds of legs.
Insects have a hard outer skeleton (called an exoskeleton) and soft body underneath. The hard exoskeleton gives protection to their inner organs. To grow, insects break their exoskeleton and shed it completely. The process is called molting. Depending on the individual insect species, molting can take a few hours to several days. After molting the insects are vulnerable because it takes a few days for their new exoskeleton to harden. Some insects will go into hiding when they molt and will not eat food. Most insects stop molting after they become adults and don’t grow further.
Insects are not very social pets when compared to other pets. At least towards humans they’re not very social, but ants are very social with each other. They don’t generally need human interactions but some can be handled. All they need is a comfortable living enclosure and food. Families still like to keep insects because they are fun to watch when they move around, molt their exoskeleton or catch prey.
What is the Ideal Habitat for Insects?
Housing insects and caring for them is easy. They don’t need large enclosures and is one of the reasons why they are popular pets. Different insects can be housed in different types of enclosures. While glass tanks will work for most insect species, some should be kept in plastic containers like Jumping Spiders or Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches.
The enclosure should be well ventilated but should be tightly secured at all times or your insects may escape. Using a mesh lid can be helpful because it can be tightly secured but still allow enough ventilation inside. Some insects can breed fast and can create problems in the local ecosystem if they accidentally get out.
Insects don’t have specific needs when it comes to adding equipment inside their enclosure. The only equipment they may need is a small reptile heat mat to keep the tank warm if your home isn’t warm enough.
Type and Size of Enclosure
The enclosure size will differ based on the insect species and how many of them you keep together. While most insects should be housed alone there are some like ants that need to be kept in large groups.
Usually a 5-gallon to 20-gallon enclosure is large enough to comfortably keep your insects. The size of their container should be large enough that a few decorations can be added, a water bowl and still give them enough space to move around.
Some things need to be considered while selecting the type of enclosure. Jumping Spiders like to jump and their enclosure should have enough height to give them room to jump.
Ants are usually kept in an ant farm. You can read more about this in the Ants article.
Habitat Requirements
The habitat needs will vary for different insects. Insects like Millipedes and Scorpions like to burrow and will need a deep substrate. Vermiculite, potting soil and vermiculite are some good substrate options. Some insects like Jumping Spiders don’t need a substrate because they spend most of their time near the top of their enclosure.
Temperature
Most insect species can live at normal room temperature but a few may need additional heating equipment like reptile heating mats. Insects like Scorpions need separate warm and hot areas inside their tank that can be created using heating mats or a heating light. Scorpions need these dual climate zones to regulate their body temperature.
Decorations
Hiding spots should be created by adding cork, ceramic planters or pieces of wood. Insects like Praying Mantis and Leaf Insects need twigs and branches in their enclosure. These give them a source of food and help them hang when they molt. When adding decorations try not to overcrowd the enclosure because your insects need space to move around.
Additional Habitat Requirements
While most insects don’t need a water bowl inside their enclosure some like Millipedes and Scorpions need it. They will drink water from the bowl and stay hydrated. The water bowl should be shallow and should have a few pebbles or rocks inside.
Food Preference of Insects
The food preference of insects varies based on the individual species. Some like Tarantulas prefer smaller insects while Leaf Insects are strict herbivors that feed on leaves.
Feeding insects can be cheap because they’re small and don’t need commercial food products. Many will eat a small amount of chopped vegetables, but carnivores will mostly eat crickets, or small mice for the latest insects
How to Feed Insects?
Some insects prefer to eat live prey. Many insect owners will breed feeder insects in a separate enclosure. By breeding your own insects to feed your pet you’ll always know the quality, and never need to buy more food for them.
Tongs can be used to feed them live food. The food should not be larger than your insects or the prey may eat your pet. Remove uneaten food after a few hours to keep the live prey from hurting your pet.
Some insects like Leaf Insects don’t need to be fed living food because they will eat leaves. Making sure that they have a few leafy branches inside their enclosure will act as their food source. The branches should be replaced when the leaves dry out to make sure there are always fresh leaves to eat.
Millipedes should be given chopped vegetables and fruits. They prefer soft food because it’s easy to eat.
The frequency of feeding will differ based on the insect species. While some need to be fed once a day, others should be fed every 2 to 3 days.
Fruits and Supplements
Insects usually don’t need supplements but Ants love sugar, sugar water should be given to them occasionally.
Many insects will do better if their food has been dusted with vitamins. The food doesn’t need to be dusted too often but once a week should be good.
General Insect Care
Managing Climate
Making sure that their climate is kept in your insects recommended range is important. Some insects like Scorpions will not eat if the climate in their enclosure isn’t right. Problems with climate may lead to issues with your insect not molting properly. As mentioned before most insects don’t need additional heating equipment. Those who need a little extra heat will get all they need with a reptile heating mat or heating light.
Having a few thermometers inside your insects’ enclosure will allow you to check the temperature. Thermometers are more important for the insects that need temperatures higher than what your house is normally at.
Humidity is an important factor to create an ideal living enclosure. The enclosures should be misted regularly to keep the humidity in the recommended range for your insect. A spray bottle is the most commonly used tool to keep the humidity levels higher.
Cleaning the Substrate
Their substrate should be spot cleaned once a day to keep from having mold or fungus growing in their enclosure. Refer to the specific article for the insect that you want for more detailed cleaning instructions.
Attention Requirements of Insects
Insects usually don’t need a lot of attention. Their biggest attention needs involve feeding them regularly and keeping optimal climate conditions in their enclosure.
They do need your attention when they are molting. When insects molt they become very delicate and should be left alone completely. Don’t open or move their enclosure or try to feed them when they molt.
Once they have successfully molted and fully grown their exoskeleton, you can start feeding them.
Aggressiveness in Insects
Aggressiveness in insects varies a lot by species. While some like Ants are very social and like to live in groups, others like Scorpions are aggressive and territorial. The degree of aggressiveness varies among subspecies as well.
Owners of Scorpions and Tarantulas should be careful while handling them. These insects can bite or sting if they are threatened. Their bites or stings are venomous but not deadly and will usually feel like a bee sting.
Are Insects Good for Beginner Pet Owners?
Yes, insects are good for beginners. Their simple enclosure needs and feeding requirements make them a good pet, especially for children. Children can learn more about living creatures and learn about responsibility and caring for something. Dogs and cats require major commitment compared to insects.
How to Select an Insect as a Pet?
Before you decide to get an insect as a pet, there are a few important things that you should look into.
Check Your Local Laws
Different states have different laws when it comes to keeping insects. Some states have made it illegal to own certain insect species as pets. There are restrictions to not let them out in the open because these insects can become invasive and damage local ecosystems. Find out about your local laws before getting an insect as a pet.
Life Span
Most insects live only for a few years but some like Tarantulas can live up to 30 years. Find out about the lifespan of insects before getting them as a pet.
Handling Needs
Many insects have venomous bites and should not be handled. Handling them can hurt if bit or stung. Some like Praying Mantis and African Giant Millipedes are docile and can be handled.
Basic Facts About Insects
Insects have been present on the planet for around 350 million years. Humans have lived only for 300,000 years!
Insects are an important part of our ecosystem. They perform functions that are imperative for the survival of other organisms. For example, insects recycle nutrients, help spread seeds, keep the soil fertile and control other pests and insects. If insect species like bees were to disappear, the availability of fresh produce will reduce and directly impact human nutrition. Most fresh produce like fruits and flowers that we get are pollinated by bees and it’s impossible to manually pollinate them at the scale that bees do.
Insects may look small but some of them are very powerful. Ants, one of the smallest insects can lift and carry weights equal to 50 times their body weight! If we take the world population as 7.3 billion, there are around 1.4 million ants per human, that’s around 10 quadrillion!
Insects don’t breathe in through their mouths. They use the holes called spiracles in their exoskeletons for respiration.
Maryna is an animal expert that has had dozens of animals in her life over the years. She has never found an animal that she didn't love immediately. It seems like every year she finds kittens that have been abandoned by their mom and she nurses them to health and finds homes for them. She contributes her vast knowledge about animals and family pets to our website and we're forever grateful to have her working with us. She's also an amazing graphics designer and has designed all of the social media images that we use across all platforms.