Problem molt in O. s.

[DanInSD]

My peacock molted again recently and seems to have some problems with a raptorial appendage. I can't get a good look at it, but at first glance the molt skin didn't come completely off of the end of the appendage, and the new appendage is "stuck open" a little.

The molt happened over a week ago, and there has been a distinct change in her behavior. She usually spends a lot of time with her head and carapace out of the burrow -- scopin' out the world. Now she's "chicken mantis", spending all of the time deep in her burrow, only coming out to snatch food from the feeding stick before retreating. So, I can't get a good look at what's going on.

I recognize that this is a common issue with larger mantis during molts. Just thought I would pass on the story.

Dan

[Feclar]

How big is your peacock now? and how long have you had em?

[DanInSD]

My peacock is probably approaching five inches. I've had her, oh, maybe a little over a year. This is her fourth molt with me.

Dan

[DanInSD]

An update: she has removed (and I think ate) the defective appendage. She still has one that looks "normal". She's eating rather voraciously, but still acting very "nervous".

I guess I would too if I had to rip one of my own arms off.

Dan

[yankeereefer]

Good to hear it's doing well despite the damage from molt

[Guygettnby]

my mantis recovered from her failed molt and is doing fine. but she is acting the same way and too be honest she acts like she is retarded. i have to push the food in front of her face in order for her to eat.

good luck with yours. mine has been like taking care of a mentally challenged child. she also likes to just stare at the light for hours upon hours or acting like she is dead.