Many stick insects feed on bramble such as blackberry and raspberry and some species  feed on oak, rose and privet.

Avoid collecting leaves from the roadside or near farm fields that may have been crop sprayed. Also avoid or trim off newly sprouted leaves in spring, as these are often too toxic for nymphs.

The leaves should be lightly misted each day so the nymphs can drink. Misting also helps to keep the  leaves fresh. The water pot should also be kept topped up to avoid the leaves wilting.

Cover the water pot so the nymphs don’t fall in and drown.

The mouth parts of newly hatched nymphs are not always strong enough to cut into the leaves. Trimming the edges of the leaves help the nymphs start to feed on the open edges.