Katydid

Scientific Name: Tettigoniidae

Order & Family: Orthoptera, Tettigoniidae

Size: Typically 1 to 5 inches (2.5 to 13 cm) in length, varying greatly by species.

Katydid

Natural Habitat

Grasslands, forests, meadows, gardens; often found on trees, shrubs, and tall vegetation.

Diet & Feeding

Mostly herbivorous, feeding on leaves, flowers, and seeds. Some species are omnivorous or carnivorous, preying on other insects.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal, known for their elaborate songs produced by stridulation (rubbing their wings together). They use camouflage to blend into their leafy environments. Many species have long antennae, often longer than their bodies. Females have a sword-like ovipositor for laying eggs.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans. Can be minor agricultural pests in large numbers, but are also part of the food chain for birds and other animals. Their presence indicates a healthy ecosystem.

Identified on: 9/14/2025