Katydid

Scientific Name: Family Tettigoniidae

Order & Family: Order Orthoptera, Family Tettigoniidae

Size: Typically 2-10 cm (0.8-4 inches) in length, though some tropical species can be larger.

Katydid

Natural Habitat

Found in various habitats, especially those with dense vegetation like forests, grasslands, gardens, and shrublands. Many species are arboreal.

Diet & Feeding

Mostly herbivorous, feeding on leaves, flowers, and seeds. Some species are omnivorous, also consuming small insects. They have strong mandibles for chewing plant matter.

Behavior Patterns

Known for their excellent camouflage, often resembling leaves or twigs. Most species are nocturnal and are identified by the sounds (stridulation) males produce to attract mates, by rubbing their wings together. Their life cycle typically involves egg, nymph, and adult stages, with nymphs resembling smaller, wingless versions of adults.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans. In some agricultural contexts, large populations can cause minor damage to crops. Ecologically, they are an important food source for birds, bats, and other predators, and some species aid in pollination.

Identified on: 10/15/2025