Critters of the Week
Critters of the Week
A wild critter we spotted in the RVA area and a critter up for adoption by Richmond SPCA.
Where Spotted: Tuckahoe Creek Park
Common Name: Handsome Meadow Katydid
Scientific Name: Orchelimum pulchellum
Length: 18-23 mm
Quick Facts Courtesy of Captial Naturalist
- It sings in low vegetation and is usually associated with water, calling mostly during the day and occasionally at night.
- As in most Orthopterans, the males do the “singing” which is actually called stridulation and is achieved by rubbing their wings. Other Orthopetrans use their legs or combination with wings, while some like the Camel Crickets we find in our basements are wingless and do not call at all.
- The Genus name is Greek for “I dance in the meadow” and the species name simply means “pretty.”
- In general, grasshoppers differ from katydids in having short antennae while katydids have long antennae.
- They will flip to the back side of the stem or stalk and use it for both a physical and visual shield.
If you’re a fan of original content like those photos above be sure to give our Instagram and Dickie’s Backyard Bird Blind Bonanza on FB a follow and consider making a donation.
[wpedon id=”165378″]
Tank at Richmond SPCA
Are you searching for a fun, friendly and adorable family member? My name is Tank and I’m the guy for you! I am pretty lonely here by myself, just waiting for my special someone to come along. Won’t you please take me home today?
Age: 8 years, 1 month
Gender: Neutered Male
Color: White / Brown
Size: XL (dog size guide)
ID: 4853142
Learn more about their adoption process.
