Masters of camouflage — these 3-inch-long stick-mimics blend perfectly with twigs. They're slow-moving, harmless, and feed primarily on oak and hazelnut leaves.
§ Quick facts
§ Encyclopedia
The common walkingstick or northern walkingstick is a species of phasmid or stick insect found across North America. The average length of this species is 75 millimetres for males and 95 mm (3.7 in) for females.
Source: Wikipedia — Common walkingstick Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
§ Identification
Field marks. Long thin stick-like body with three pairs of slender legs that extend like extra twigs; coloration ranges from green to brown to nearly black; lacks wings (unlike some other phasmids).
Similar species. Other walking stick species (different sizes, ranges). Some praying mantis species (very different body shape and behavior).
Voice. N/A
§ Diet & behavior
Diet. Tree leaves — primarily oak, hickory, and other hardwoods; also occasional fruits and tender shoots.
Behavior. Most common phasmid in eastern North America. Among the most extraordinary camouflage in any insect — body shape, color, and even posture all mimic small twigs. When at rest, individuals sway in the breeze like real twigs. Parthenogenetic reproduction common — females can produce viable eggs without mating, though sexual reproduction also occurs. Eggs scattered randomly from the trees, often beneath leaf litter; hatching can be delayed up to 2 years.
§ Range
Eastern and central US
§ Habitat
Deciduous forests, woodland edges
§ Threats
Loss of mature deciduous forest, pesticide drift on host trees.
§ Conservation status
According to the IUCN Red List, the northern walking stick is currently classified as Least Concern.
§ What helps
Maintain native oak and hazel. Don't spray insecticide on yard trees. Tolerate occasional leaf damage.
§ Further reading
- Wikipedia — Common walkingstick
- www.nwf.org — authoritative profile of Diapheromera femorata
- iNaturalist · taxon 61410
- IUCN Red List — search for Diapheromera femorata
- GBIF occurrence records
- Encyclopedia of Life — Diapheromera femorata
§ Sources cited
- BugGuide
- Audubon Society Insect Guide
- iNaturalist
