Eurycantha calcarata (PSG 23) 

     This is a ground-dwelling species from Papua New Guinea.  They are commonly called the Giant Spiny stick-insect.  The males do have a very large spine on the femur of their hindmost legs.  When disturbed, he will assume a defensive position, lifting his abdomen and one or both rear legs high.   Adult males are often kept separate, as they have been known to fight, and eat each other.  Nymphs are often kept separately  from the adult males too.  

The female abdomen comes to a point (the ovipositor).  Ova are laid below ground, although in captivity they can be prompted to lay ova in small vermiculite-filled containers within the cage.

A small lid/container with water should be placed on the bottom of the cage for them to drink from (this is not recommended for most other species as they can drown).    

Ideally, a cage should be designed to reflect the natural habitat of the animal.  This species likes to hide under leaves or bark by day, and will come out to feed at night.  

I have heard mixed reviews on the friendliness of this species.  Some say they bite, while others hold them without worry.  I recommend holding them when they are nymphs to allow you both to get used to the idea.  Care must be taken when lifting this species, as it can grasp on to anything, including you.  They would sometimes sooner lose a leg than let go.  Some eat and move about the cage comfortably while being watched.  Others freeze and don't move until you are gone.  

Foodplants:  bramble, grape, hawthorn, ivy, oak, pear, rose, Oregon grape, mountain ash