Phasma gigas (PSG 190)

This large species, from Papua New Guinea.  Most impressive is the female's tendency to show her startle-display when disturbed (or just held at the thorax).  Females can have attractive white blotches on their wings, which are vestigial and cover 2/3 of their bodies.  When spread out, and during the startle-display, the striking black and brown checkered pattern of the wings are remarkable.  Males seem to be more active than most other species, and fly well.  Their legs are a brilliant shade of light green.

Foodplants: bramble