Diapheromera femorata (PSG 35)

   This species is native to the US and Canada.  It is the most common species of Phasmid in North America.  Adult females typically have the appearance of polished, hardwood floors.  The nymphs are light-green, and mine seem somewhat fragile although they were bred parthenogenetically.  As they grow they become various shades of yellow-green with tints of pink and tan.  The ova are glossy black with grey stripes.  For an eerie close-up picture of the mouth click here...Warning:  This will make you think twice about holding stick-insects:-) although most are completely safe!

Foodplants: bramble, clover, locust (Robinia), oak, rose