Weta Piki (Jumping Weta) vs Common Field Grasshopper
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Weta Piki (Jumping Weta) | Common Field Grasshopper |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Hemiandrus pallitarsis | Chorthippus brunneus |
| Order | Orthoptera | Orthoptera |
| Family | Anostostomatidae | Acrididae |
| Size | 15-25 mm | 14-24 mm |
| Habitat | Forests | Heathland |
| Diet | Detritivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Oceania (New Zealand) | Europe, Western Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Weta Piki (Jumping Weta)
A small ground weta endemic to New Zealand, found in forest leaf litter. It is nocturnal and burrows into the soil during the day. Ground weta are the most species-rich group of weta, with many species still being discovered and described.
Did You Know?
New species of ground weta are still being discovered in New Zealand, with more than 40 species now known, many identified only in the last two decades.
Common Field Grasshopper
An abundant European grasshopper with highly variable coloration ranging from green to brown. It produces a distinctive short buzzing song by rubbing its hind legs against its wings.
Did You Know?
Each species of Chorthippus has a unique song, making sound the most reliable way to tell closely related species apart.