Bug Identifier
True Katydid
Community identification

True Katydid

Pterophylla camellifolia

Order & Family
Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae
Size
45–55 mm in length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Deciduous forests and wooded areas, typically found high in the canopy of trees like oaks and maples.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous, feeding primarily on the leaves of deciduous trees including oak, maple, and fruit trees.

Behavior Patterns

Mainly nocturnal; males produce a loud, repetitive 'katy-did' sound at night to attract mates. They utilize leaf-like camouflage to avoid predators during the day.

Risks & Benefits

Poses no risk to humans; benefits the ecosystem as a food source for birds and bats, though they can occasionally cause minor foliage damage in large numbers.