This katydid is about 2 inches long (50 mm). Its specis name reflects the shape of its wings, which resemble the hump of a camel. Adults and larvae feed on leaves of trees, especially oak trees. To hear the song of a Common True Katydid, click here (compliments of “Insect Songs of North America” website and the Univ. of Florida).
This species of katydid is often heard, but rarely seen, because it remains mostly high in the dense canopy of trees. It does not fly, but flutters to the ground in order to walk or run to the next tree. The katydid, shown in photos 1 and 2, was photographed at Neale Woods. Photos 3, 4 and 5 were taken at Fontenelle Forest. Common True Katydids are common in this area and especially in oak trees.
The Common True Katydid ranges throughout most of eastern North America. Eastern Nebraska is on the western edge of its normal range. Both males and females stridulate using their wings to make their characteristic sound.
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