Detailed macro shot of a hairy tarantula exploring the forest floor in Olmué, Chile.

The Best Heating and Lighting for Tarantula Care

Rica Rosal

Tarantulas, with their exotic appearance and relatively low-maintenance needs, have gained popularity among exotic pet enthusiasts. However, creating the right environmental conditions—particularly heating and lighting—remains one of the most misunderstood aspects of tarantula husbandry. Unlike many reptiles, tarantulas have unique requirements that, when properly met, can help ensure a healthy, long-lived pet. This comprehensive guide ...

Close-up of a colorful shield bug beside translucent eggs on a green leaf.

How to Identify the Gender of Your Pet Insect

Sylvia Duruson

Determining the gender of a pet insect might seem like a challenging task given their small size and unfamiliar anatomy. However, being able to identify whether your six-legged companion is male or female can provide valuable insights into their behavior, lifespan, and care requirements. Whether you’re keeping a praying mantis, stick insect, beetle, or another ...

black and beige tarantula on brown soil

The Best Feeder Insects for Tarantulas and Other Exotic Pets

Sylvia Duruson

Keeping exotic pets like tarantulas, reptiles, and amphibians requires specialized knowledge, particularly when it comes to their nutrition. Unlike traditional pets that thrive on commercial kibble, exotic pets often require live prey that mimics their natural diets. Feeder insects form the cornerstone of nutrition for these fascinating creatures, providing not only sustenance but also mental ...

A close-up image of a rare beetle on a person's finger

The Most Unique Pet Insects You Can Legally Own

Sylvia Duruson

The world of pet ownership extends far beyond cats and dogs, with many enthusiasts turning to the fascinating realm of insect keeping. These tiny creatures offer a unique ownership experience—they require minimal space, are often inexpensive to maintain, and display some of nature’s most extraordinary adaptations. For those seeking unusual companions, legally owned pet insects ...

Meet the World’s Most Popular Pet Bugs — And Their Quirky Behaviors

Rica Rosal

While cats and dogs may reign supreme in the pet popularity contest, a fascinating subset of animal lovers has turned to invertebrates for companionship. Pet bugs, with their minimal space requirements, distinctive behaviors, and often surprisingly long lifespans, have carved out a dedicated niche in the exotic pet community. From meditative mantises to colorful crawlers, ...

A well-planted bioactive terrarium with visible substrate layers and insects

How to Set Up a Bioactive Habitat for Pet Insects

Muhammad Sharif

Creating a bioactive habitat for your pet insects transforms a simple enclosure into a thriving miniature ecosystem. Unlike traditional setups that require frequent cleaning and substrate changes, bioactive habitats utilize beneficial microorganisms, plants, and small creatures to create a self-sustaining environment that mimics your insect’s natural habitat. These living terrariums not only provide a more ...

A large brown and white butterfly sitting on a tree

The Most Exotic Insects in the Pet Trade

Sylvia Duruson

The world of exotic pet keeping continues to evolve beyond traditional companion animals like dogs and cats. In recent years, the exotic insect trade has flourished, offering enthusiasts the opportunity to observe and care for some of nature’s most fascinating arthropods. From vibrant beetles with iridescent exoskeletons to massive stick insects that stretch the imagination, ...

green beetle

How to Feed Your Pet Beetle the Right Diet

Rica Rosal

Pet beetles are fascinating creatures that require proper nutrition to thrive in captivity. Whether you’re caring for a majestic rhinoceros beetle, a striking flower beetle, or a curious darkling beetle, understanding their dietary needs is essential for their health and longevity. Unlike traditional pets, beetles have specific nutritional requirements that vary significantly between species. This ...

A hand holding a calm and docile tarantula known for safe handling

The Most Gentle Tarantula Species for Handling

Muhammad Sharif

Tarantulas, with their impressive size and distinctive hairy appearance, often evoke fear rather than thoughts of gentle companionship. However, within the diverse world of these arachnids, several species stand out for their docile temperaments and suitability for careful handling. For tarantula enthusiasts or curious beginners looking to explore this fascinating hobby, understanding which species are ...

Green praying mantis standing on a textured black surface.

Caring for a Praying Mantis: Your Guide to Raising a Tiny Predator

Sylvia Duruson

Praying mantises stand among nature’s most fascinating predators, capturing our imagination with their alien-like appearance and remarkable hunting abilities. These skilled hunters, with their triangular heads and folded forelimbs that give them their “praying” posture, make surprisingly engaging and low-maintenance pets. Whether you’ve found one in your garden or purchased one from a specialty supplier, ...