These large insects are part of the order Phasmatodea - leaf and stick insects. Spiny Leaf Insects are found living in the tops of Eucalyptus trees on Australia's east coast. They eat gum leaves.
The females lay small, hard eggs which fall to the ground. When the young emerge, they resemble ants. They instinctively move up the nearest tree and begin feeding. After they moult (shed their skin) for the first time, they start to look like miniature adults.
The one in the picture is a female. Males are smaller and more slender and have fully-developed wings. This female is part of a small colony which has been living in search & discover for several years. The Spiny Leaf Insects are very popular with visitors and are becoming increasingly popular pets.
If you visit search & discover, remember to look for the Spiny Leaf Insects at the front information desk.
For more information about leaf and stick insects, see our fact sheet.
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