Banks Peninsula Tree Weta vs Saddle-backed Bush-cricket
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Banks Peninsula Tree Weta | Saddle-backed Bush-cricket |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Hemideina ricta | Ephippiger ephippiger |
| Order | Orthoptera | Orthoptera |
| Family | Anostostomatidae | Tettigoniidae |
| Size | 35-50 mm | 22-30mm |
| Habitat | Hedgerows | Heathland |
| Diet | Herbivores | Omnivores |
| 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.
Saddle-backed Bush-cricket
A robust bush-cricket named for its saddle-shaped pronotum. It has vestigial wings used only for sound production. Both males and females can stridulate and will duet with each other.
Did You Know?
Both sexes sing, and females respond to male calls, making them one of the few katydids where both sexes duet.