Violet-winged stick insects are also known as Spur-legged stick insects. Both names are
descriptive of their appearance, although it is only the males that have the spines or spurs
on their hind legs. Both males and females can have violet-coloured wings, although the
females with their shorter wings tend more towards pink. This species is found in south
eastern Australia, from Tasmania up the east coast to southern Queensland. They can
sometimes be considered pests in eucalypt forests. They feed on eucalyptus leaves, and are
very widespread. Males are able to fly short distances, and the females are not capable of
flying