Katydid (also called Bush Cricket or Long-Horned Grasshopper)

Family Tettigoniidae
(Neoconocephalus, Amblycorypha, and other genera are common in Virginia.)

Quick ID

Leaflike green insect with long, slender antennae often longer than its body.
The wings resemble fresh green leaves, complete with “veins.”
Adults are 1.5–2.5 inches long.
Males produce rhythmic “katy-did, katy-didn’t” calls by rubbing their wings together at night.

Ecological Role

Katydids are both herbivores and prey. They feed on leaves, flowers, and fruit, helping prune vegetation and sometimes pollinate nocturnal blooms. They are also an important food source for birds, bats, spiders, frogs, and small mammals—forming a vital link in the food web.

At-a-Glance

Trait	Description
Size	1.5–2.5 in (varies by species)
Color	Leaf-green; some pink or brown morphs
Diet	Leaves, flowers, fruit, and occasionally small insects
Activity	Nocturnal
Sound	“Katy-did, katy-didn’t” call at night
Lifespan	1 year (eggs overwinter)
Flight	Strong, fluttering, often clumsy near lights

Where to Find It

Found throughout Virginia and the eastern United States, especially in woodlands, shrubby fields, gardens, and tree canopies. Listen for their rasping songs on warm summer nights, particularly from late July through September.

Look-Alikes

Grasshoppers (Family Acrididae) – Shorter antennae (less than body length), thicker bodies, and daytime singers.
Leaf Insects (Family Phylliidae) – True leaf mimics found in the tropics, not in Virginia.

Why It Matters

Katydids are bioindicators of habitat health. Their presence and song diversity often reflect a rich, undisturbed ecosystem. Because they’re sensitive to pesticide use and habitat fragmentation, their absence can signal declining plant and insect diversity.

Safety

Harmless to humans! Katydids don’t bite or sting.
If handled, they may “spit” a harmless plant juice defense.
Avoid spraying insecticides at night—these nocturnal insects are active pollinators and food sources for native wildlife.

Fun Fact

Only male katydids sing, but females “reply” by snapping their wings—an ultrasonic response most humans can’t hear! Some tropical relatives even mimic leaves so well that they have “bite marks” built into their wings as camouflage.

Recommended Book References

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