Lord Howe Island Stick Insect vs Giant Walkingstick
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Lord Howe Island Stick Insect | Giant Walkingstick |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Dryococelus australis | Megaphasma denticrus |
| Order | Phasmatodea | Phasmatodea |
| Family | Phasmatidae | Phasmatidae |
| Size | 120-150 mm | 75-180 mm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Woodlands |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Oceania | North America |
| Conservation | Critically Endangered | Least Concern |
Lord Howe Island Stick Insect
Once thought extinct after rats were introduced in 1918, a tiny population was rediscovered in 2001 on Balls Pyramid, a volcanic sea stack 23 km from Lord Howe Island.
Did You Know?
Fewer than 30 individuals were found clinging to a single bush on a barren sea stack — making this the rarest insect rediscovery in history. Captive breeding saved the species.
Giant Walkingstick
The longest insect native to North America at up to 180 mm. Completely wingless and nocturnal. Named for small spines under its mesofemur.
Did You Know?
At 7 inches long, this is North Americas largest insect by length — yet it is so well camouflaged as a twig that most people walk right past them without noticing.