Banks Peninsula Tree Weta vs Black Burying Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Banks Peninsula Tree Weta | Black Burying Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Hemideina ricta | Nicrophorus humator |
| Order | Orthoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Anostostomatidae | Silphidae |
| Size | 35-50 mm | 18-26mm |
| Habitat | Hedgerows | Hedgerows |
| Diet | Herbivores | Carrion Feeders |
| Regions | Oceania (New Zealand - Banks Peninsula) | Europe |
| Conservation | Endangered | Least Concern |
Banks Peninsula Tree Weta
The rarest tree weta in New Zealand, restricted to Banks Peninsula near Christchurch. It was not described as a distinct species until 1993. Habitat loss and predation by introduced mammals have reduced its population to critically low levels.
Did You Know?
This weta was only recognised as its own species in 1993, having been overlooked among the more common Canterbury tree weta for over a century.
Black Burying Beetle
A large all-black burying beetle with orange-tipped antennae. It buries animal carcasses for its larvae.
Did You Know?
One of the largest burying beetles in Europe and can inter a mouse-sized carcass in just a few hours.