A Katydid is a type of insect in the family Tettigoniidae, known for their long antennae and distinctive songs that resemble the repeated phrase “Katy did, Katy didn’t”.
Katydids are insects that belong to the family Tettigoniidae and are commonly known for their distinctive singing sounds during summer nights. These fascinating insects are widely distributed in North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia and come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors.
Katydids are part of the order Orthoptera, which includes crickets and grasshoppers. They are often mistaken for these insects due to their similarity in appearance and behavior. However, Katydids can be easily distinguished by their long antennae, which are usually longer than their body length.
One of the most interesting features of Katydids is their sound. Male Katydids produce a loud, repetitive trill, which is a mating call to attract female Katydids. The sound is created by rubbing their wings together, which creates an impressive symphony of chirps and trills during the summer months.
Katydids feed on plants, including leaves, stems, and flowers, and they play an important role in the ecosystem by controlling the growth of vegetation. They are also a food source for many predators, including birds, reptiles, and bats.
In terms of their physical appearance, Katydids come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, and their coloration can range from green to brown to pink. Some species have even evolved to mimic leaves or branches, making them excellent at blending in with their surroundings and avoiding predators.
Gear Used:
- Camera: Canon EOS 7D Mark II
- Lens: Canon EF 100-400 mm f/4.5-5.6 L IS II USM
Technical:
I spotted the Katydid while on a photo walk near my place here in Arkansas. I photographed it while hand-holding my camera and lens.
- Location: Near the Ouachita National Forest (Arkansas)
- Date & Time Taken: September 11, 2016 (2:37:09 P.M.)
- Aperture Priority
- Aperture: f8.0
- Shutter speed: 1/800 sec. (as determined by the camera)
- ISO: 640
- White Balance – Auto
- Metering Mode: Evaluative
- Exposure Compensation: 0 EV
- Back-button Focus
- Single Point Focus
- Focal Length: 400 mm
- Processed With Luminar 4