Endangered-species-predator
Guides
Neobarrettia spinosa
Greater Arid-land Katydid, Red-eyed Katydid, Red-eyed Devil, Giant Texas Katydid, Spiny Bush Katydid
Neobarrettia spinosa is a large, predatory katydid native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Unlike most katydids, it is an obligate carnivore, actively hunting and consuming prey including other insects, small vertebrates, and even endangered songbirds. The species is notable for its striking threat display, during which it rears back, spreads its wings, and exposes its bright coloration while presenting formidable mandibles and spiny forelegs. It is one of only two Neobarrettia species extending into the United States from a genus otherwise restricted to northern Mexico.