This Enormous Insect Stretches Over Two Feet and Still Hides in Plain Sight

Insects have long rivaled the best human illusionists, creating magic right before our eyes. However, one particular bug stands out from the rest, not only in size but in its ability to blend seamlessly into its surroundings.

Meet Phobaeticus serratipes, commonly known as the giant walking stick or giant stick insect.

This enormous insect takes camouflage to another level, mimicking twigs, branches, or leaves to avoid detection.

A recent YouTube video showing a man with his pet giant stick insect offers an incredible look at how massive yet delicate these creatures can be. With legs as long as some people’s forearms, it’s one of the largest insects in the world.

Let’s explore how big these insects get, where they live, how they move, and why they’re becoming increasingly popular among insect enthusiasts.

What Is Phobaeticus serratipes?

While many people have probably seen a giant walking stick (Phobaeticus serratipes) at the zoo, their natural habitat is in Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia and Singapore. Like other members of the Phasmatodea order, these insects are masters of disguise.

The creature’s slender body and long legs emulate twigs or thin branches, making it difficult for predators and even scientists to spot.

How Big Do Giant Stick Insects Get?

Although it may not look like much when compared to other animals, the giant walking stick is a behemoth in the bug world.

Adult females tend to be longer than males and reach up to 30 centimeters in length. When fully stretched out, they can hit lengths of 55 centimeters, with the longest ever recorded reaching a staggering 64 centimeters.

Where Can Giant Walking Sticks Be Found in the Wild?

As mentioned earlier, the giant walking stick species from the video are native to the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia. This area’s humid and densely vegetated environment provides ample food and opportunity for the creature to perform its disappearing act.

However, stick insects, as a group, call the world their home.

These bugs currently inhabit nearly every continent, including North and South America, Australia, Europe, and Africa.

Even though their presence is global, it’s likely you’ve never actually recognized them in the wild. Their camouflage makes them challenging to spot even in plain sight.

How Do They Hold Onto Things?

Just by looking at a giant stick insect, you might assume they would blow away with the wind. However, these bugs are excellent climbers.

They have small hook-like claws at the tips of their legs that help them grip tightly to surfaces like branches, leaves, and even skin or clothing.

In the video, the giant walking stick can be seen clinging calmly to its handler, relying on its natural climbing abilities to steady itself.

Do They Bite or Sting?

Unlike other species of stick insects, the giant walking stick is completely harmless to humans and doesn’t bite, sting, or release any chemical.

Since it doesn’t have a natural defense mechanism, these creatures rely on their ability to disappear to survive. They have even been known to gently sway when disturbed, mimicking a twig blowing in the breeze.

Do They Make Good Pets?

While giant walking sticks are occasionally kept as pets by enthusiasts who enjoy exotic insects, they do have specific care requirements, including:

• Tall enclosures with plenty of vertical space
• Access to safe, pesticide-free plants for food
• An environment with consistent humidity

These insects are not interactive like dogs or cats, but they’re quiet, low-maintenance, and captivating to observe.

The biggest thing that new owners need to be cautious of is the insect’s limbs. Their long legs are extremely delicate, and rough handling can lead to injury.

Gentle care, limited handling, and a stable enclosure are key to keeping them healthy in captivity.

Because of their size and unique appearance, giant stick insects often become the centerpiece of home terrariums — and a conversation starter for anyone unfamiliar with the world of exotic insects.