Katydid

Natural Habitat

Found in various habitats, primarily among vegetation such as trees, shrubs, and tall grasses. They are common in gardens, forests, meadows, and agricultural fields.

Diet & Feeding

Most katydids are herbivorous, feeding on leaves, flowers, and seeds. Some species are omnivorous, supplementing their diet with small insects or other invertebrates. A few are predatory.

Behavior Patterns

Katydids are nocturnal insects, active primarily at night when they feed and mate. They are well-camouflaged, often resembling leaves or twigs, which helps them avoid predators. Males produce distinctive songs (stridulation) by rubbing their forewings together to attract mates. Their life cycle typically involves incomplete metamorphosis, with eggs laid in soil or on plants, hatching into nymphs that gradually mature into adults.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans. While large numbers can cause some damage to garden plants or crops due to their herbivorous diet, this is usually not a significant economic threat. They serve as a food source for birds, bats, and other insectivores, playing a role in the food web. Their camouflaged appearance and singing behavior make them interesting components of natural ecosystems.

Identified on: 9/19/2025