Mountain Stone Weta vs Canterbury Tree Weta

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Mountain Stone Weta Canterbury Tree Weta
Scientific Name Hemideina maori Hemideina femorata
Order Orthoptera Orthoptera
Family Anostostomatidae Anostostomatidae
Size 40-60 mm Body 35-40 mm
Habitat Mountains Forests
Diet Herbivores Fruit Feeders
Regions South Island, New Zealand New Zealand
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Mountain Stone Weta

A freeze-tolerant weta found in alpine regions of New Zealand. It shelters under rocks and can survive being frozen solid during harsh winters.

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Did You Know?

It can survive temperatures as low as -10°C by allowing ice to form in its body fluids without cell damage.

Canterbury Tree Weta

A medium-sized tree weta found in the eastern South Island of New Zealand. It has dark brown banding on the abdomen and is active on cool nights.

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Did You Know?

It can remain active at temperatures close to freezing, unlike most other large insects.