
Community identification
Katydid (specifically a Bush Cricket or True Katydid)
Pterophylla camellifolia (or similar species in the subfamily Phaneropterinae)
- Order & Family
- Order: Orthoptera; Family: Tettigoniidae
- Size
- Approximately 1.5 to 2.5 inches (40 to 65 mm) in length.
Natural Habitat
Deciduous forests, woodlands, gardens, and shrubbery across North America and other temperate regions.
Diet & Feeding
Primarily herbivorous, feeding on leaves, stems, and flowers of trees and shrubs; occasionally scavenges on other insects.
Behavior Patterns
Mainly nocturnal; they are known for their leaf-like camouflage and the loud 'katy-did, katy-didn't' sound produced by males rubbing their wings together to attract mates.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to humans; they benefit the ecosystem as a food source for birds and bats, though some species may cause minor foliar damage to garden plants.