A Sooty Longwing is a large, gray katydid. Though it looks like a grasshopper, its antennae are extremely long and thin whereas a grasshopper’s is short and thick. Long wings have diagonal details on them, and long back legs allow them to jump fast and far. Hindwings are dark and sooty, almost black, and when threatened, this katydid flashes these wings. This species is not afraid to bite, so handling it is not recommended.
This species is found in the American Southwest and northern states of Mexico. It feeds on both plant matter and insects. At night, it hunts and can be found by artificial lights, taking advantage of the opportunity to attack other nocturnal insects near them. Males chirp in what sounds like a continuous, pulsing trill. At home in the desert, look for the Sooty Longwing on shrubs during the day and at night.
General Characteristics Capability, Shape, Texture/Pattern, Benefits, Dangers
Note: An insect's reach is not limited by lines drawn on a map and therefore species may appear in areas, regions and/or states beyond those listed above as they are driven by environmental factors (such as climate change), available food supplies and mating patterns.
Colors: gray; brown
