Walking Leaf
Walking Leaf Facts
| Size | 0.9-4.7 in (24-120 mm) |
| Speed | Unknown |
| Weight | Unknown |
| Lifespan | Unknown |
| Food | Leaves, plants, fruits |
| Predators | Amphibians, reptiles, birds, mammals |
| Habitat | Tropical and subtropical regions |
| Order | Ghost insects |
| Family | Phylliidae |
| Subfamily | Walking leaves |
| Scientific name | Phylliidae |
| Characteristics | Body that looks like a leaf |
Main Characteristics
Walking leaves are insects that look very similar to leaves. Most of them live in the tropical regions of Southeast Asia. In accordance with their habitat, walking leaves are mostly brown or green, some slightly speckled or have serrated edges like nibbled leaves. Even their legs look like little leaves.
Anatomy and Appearance
Why Do They Look Like Leaves?
It is not easy to distinguish the animals from leaves or twigs. And this is exactly what they are aiming at as they are not very good at defending themselves. Thanks to their appearance they are nearly invisible to their enemies.
Diet
What Do Walking Leaves Eat?
The diet of walking leaves comprises the food they are so passionately mimicking: Leaves. They particularly love the leaves of guava and cocoa plants as well as mango trees.
Behavior
How Do Walking Leaves Move?
When moving they sway to and fro like leaves in the wind. Yet, they spend most of the day just motionlessly sitting on a branch. They only get active during the night.
Senses and Abilities
Are Walking Leaves Able to Fly?
Female walking leaves cannot fly. Males can fly short distances thanks to their well-developed hind wings.
Walking Leaves Can Regrow Legs
The arms and legs of walking leaves can regenerate. As soon as the animals have shed their skin, new little legs (or arms) will show up. After a short while they will have grown to their full length again.
Walking Leaves as Pets
Walking leaves make great pets. They're rather undemanding, and it is great fun to watch them. They can be kept in a terrarium and fed with blackberry, oak, and rose leaves. As the animals do not lose any skin flakes, there are hardly any problems with allergies. In our pet section you will learn how to keep walking leaves!
- Find Out More:
- Walking Leaves as Pets
- Cicada Facts
- Ghost Insect Facts
- Praying Mantis Facts
- Watch Now on animalfunfacts.net:
Animal Camouflage
