Also known as the “false” katydid or bush cricket, this medium to large insect is similar to the cricket.

Measuring in at 1” to 2.5” long, the katydid is known for the males’ songs. The males rub their wings together to create a chirping almost song-like sound to attract the female katydid. The females hear this through a plate they have on their front legs. This acts a an “ear” for them. If you’ve ever heard it, then you may have noticed that during the day the sound is different than the one done at night.

Katydids mate late summer so the female can lay her eggs in the fall. Laying them on leaf edges, into the bark of a tree or on a twig, these eggs will hatch in the spring.

Once nymph katydids hatch, they go through several stages before becoming an adult. Going from a brownish color and unwinged to green and winged by mid to late summer. They then go about finding a mate to start the next generation.

Katydids are plant eaters. You can often find them in crops or weeds and eating on flower, leaves and fruits from trees. They are capable of damage in large numbers.

If you’re being taken over by insects or want to prevent them before they start, call Safe Earth Pest Control today to get started. 214-321-2847