Introducing the Red-eyed Devil Katydid, a fascinating insect that may sound scary but has a lot of interesting things about it. With its big red eyes and bold appearance, this katydid stands out and plays an important part in its environment. Let’s take a closer look at this amazing bug.
Scientific name: Neobarrettia spinosa
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Orthoptera
Suborder: Ensifera
Family: Tettigoniidae
Genus: Neobarrettia
They have striking appearance
The red-eyed devil katydid, also known as the greater arid-land katydid or the giant Texas katydid, is a striking katydid species. Its large body sports a vibrant mix of green and yellow, complemented by its notable red bulging eyes, which contribute to its fierce look and nickname, “red-eyed devil.” This insect has a sturdy build and short, spotted hind wings which it uses in dramatic displays to ward off predators.
It boasts spiny forelegs and a sharp, long ovipositor that give it a fierce appearance. Its strong mandibles on a large head even make it more aggressive. When it feels threatened, the red-eyed devil katydid raises its spiny legs and opens its jaws wide in a defensive stance, ready to bite. This behavior is meant to scare away its enemies.
They’re not great at flying and prefer walking to jumping. Red-eyed devil katydids can live for several years in captivity.
Red-eyed devil katydid Habitat
The red-eyed devil katydid is found in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, from the Red River in Texas to the Rio Grande, and as far west as southeastern Arizona. It lives in oak-juniper woodlands and dry deserts dotted with mesquite and other shrubs.
Diet
Unlike other katydid species, the giant Texas katydid is a carnivorous insect that hunts a variety of prey. It moves quietly through the underbrush, feeding on grasshoppers, other katydids, and caterpillars, including the tomato hornworm. It also preys on small lizards, frogs, and birds, such as the endangered Vireo atricapilla, and any small animal it can defeat.
Although the red-eyed devil katydid is known for its aggressive behavior and can defend itself with a strong bite and kick, it is still vulnerable to attacks from larger predators in its natural environment.
