FAQ’s

Spiny Leaf Insects make excellent and educational pets. Following are some of the common questions I am asked about them.
Q. Are Spinys safe for kids?
A. Absolutely! They are harmless and very easy to look after.
Q. Do they smell?
A. No. The only smell is from the fresh Eucalyptus or Melaleuca leaves (which actually smell great).
Q. Do they bite or sting?
A. No. Spinys cannot bite you and do not have any stingers. They are harmless.
Q. How hard are Spinys to look after?
A. They are really easy to look after and only take a minute of work each day to spray the leaves with fresh water.
Q. What do Spinys eat?
A. Eucalyptus (Gum trees)orMelaleuca (PaperBark). What ever they have been raised on is what they will always eat. I have 2 colonies of Spinys; 1 that are raised on gum and 1 that are raised on paper bark. You can choose which ones you would like depending on what trees you have near your home.
Q. Where do I find the food for them?
A. You can find Gum and Paper Bark in parks, as street trees, in your backyard or a friend or neighbours yard (make sure you get permission first).
You are not allowed to take leaves from a National Park.
Leaves should not be collected from near really busy roads, as there may be pollution on them.
You should always wash the leaves with fresh water before giving them to your Spinys.
Q. How much space do they take up?
A. Spinys can be kept is a pretty small area like on a desk or shelf. They take up about the same sized area as a place mat. The tanks that I have for sale are 36cm wide x 22cm deep x 25cm tall and you can keep up to 4 adult Spinys in a tank this size.
Q. How will my Spiny be sent to me? Will it be safe?
A. I post Spinys early in the week to make sure they get to you as soon as possible. They are sent in a container with air holes and fresh leaves. It is very safe and not cruel to send them this way.
Q. Will I get a Male or Female?
A. You can choose if you would like a Male or Female. Or, you can get one of each and have your own Spiny babies and watch the life cycle.
Q. What if I have a problem?
A. I am always available for advice by email or the ‘contact me’ section on Spiny.com.au. I want to make sure that your new pet is healthy and you are happy so I will always be there for help.