Common name : Mercury island tusked weta
Scientific name : Motuweta isolate
Family : Anostostomatidae
Native to : Mercury Islands
Interesting fact : This species of weta has huge
tusks on its head, which it uses to fight other males and
makes noises.
A total of 60 mm in body length, the mercury island tusked weta is red in colour. Its diet is comprised of other insects. A ground dwelling insect, this tusked weta covers its shallow nest with eaves. Amongst the members of its species, this particular insect is the most endangered. It was only discovered as late as 1970.
