Do walking stick bugs bite?

According to the University of Alberta, walking stick bugs do not bite. National Geographic points out that these insects often use camouflage for protection instead, blending in with their surroundings.

Walking sticks sometimes fool predators by pretending to be dead. On occasion, they lose a limb rather than become a full meal. Certain subspecies have spikes on their legs to use as weapons, while others produce a foul-smelling liquid that discourages the approach of other organisms.

Walking stick insects vary in size tremendously. A North American subspecies is 1/2 inch in length, while 13-inch-long walking sticks are found in Borneo. With their legs extended, these insects are over 21 inches.