Stick & Leaf Insects

Night walks with a torch are far more productive than daytime searching, since even a trained eye walks past most stick insects in daylight. Look along thin branches and leaf midribs rather than open foliage, and move the torch beam slowly — the animal's outline often only becomes obvious once it is silhouetted at the right angle.

Plan field days around Jun–Oct: light is often strongest at dawn and dusk, when many mammals and birds are most active. Work with a naturalist who knows local movement patterns — they will position you ethically while improving your odds of a encounter in key reserves across India.