Moonlight Mantids was created in the fall of 2012 as a way to disperse our surplus offspring.  We have been developing many new techniques in the trade that were previously huge issues in the husbandry of captive bred insects. That is especially true here in the U.S. and it is up to all of us to share what we have learned in order to ensure the success of our hobby. My methods have been time-tested and shared on YouTube as a way to help fellow hobbyists.

 

     Some of species we have produced are the result of dozens of hard working people who helped light the way.  When it comes to breeding mantids, it is a labor of love and if you’re not in it purely for the sake of enjoyment, it won’t matter how hard you try - do what you love, love what you do! The insect trade is nothing like the reptile trade, it is its own beast.  Insects are far more delicate and sensitive to shipping and have a far more difficult time reproducing in captivity.  No breeder is ever guaranteed to reproduce the same species twice which is why they fluctuate in and out of stock so quickly. For that reason, it is important to work together and share nymph whenever possible. These conditions are nothing like what we see in reptile trade operation. I'm to provide mantids and supplies on this site as well as beginner information and resources for anyone looking for non-plant pest, captive bred mantids, and other insects!

 

     Our experience in breeding exotic pets started in the snake trade as Serpentarium Surplus, which was created in 2008.  We specialized in captive bred rat snakes which was a very seasonal trade and sold out very quickly. We like to offer everyone the chance to start out with more than what was available to us when we began, with easy-to-follow video instructions. We don’t want people to become discouraged when attempting to reproduce mantids, other insects, or even reptiles. We have spent thousands of hours on care and reproduction study before sharing information with you!

 

     Our message is clear and our promise is true!  We are all part of this and we are all responsible.  We strive to be reasonable and understanding towards each other, and to always share what we have done and share what we have learned! 

 

Thank you so much for reading!