Tree Weta vs Mountain Stone Weta
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Tree Weta | Mountain Stone Weta |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Hemideina thoracica | Hemideina maori |
| Order | Orthoptera | Orthoptera |
| Family | Anostostomatidae | Anostostomatidae |
| Size | 40-60 mm body length | 40-60 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Mountains |
| Diet | Fruit Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | Oceania | South Island, New Zealand |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Tree Weta
A common weta species found throughout the North Island of New Zealand. It shelters in tree holes during the day and forages for food at night.
Did You Know?
Tree weta can survive being frozen solid; their blood contains special proteins that prevent ice crystals from damaging their cells.
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.
Did You Know?
It can survive temperatures as low as -10°C by allowing ice to form in its body fluids without cell damage.