Wētā << WEHT ah >> is any of a group of large New Zealand insects that resemble grasshoppers. Wētā have spiny legs and make a peculiar rasping sound when disturbed. They may reach the size of a mouse, or about 4 inches (10 centimeters) in length. Despite their frightening appearance, wētā will not harm people if handled carefully, although the larger species can inflict a powerful bite. The male tree wētā has a large head with big, grotesque jaws.
Most species (kinds) of wētā are active at night. They hide in holes, burrows, or hollow logs during the day. Wētā seldom jump, but they can do so if disturbed. They are agile climbers and feed mainly on vegetable matter, though they will eat other insects if the opportunity occurs.
Some species of wētā have become especially adapted to living in caves. These species have small eyes and extremely long antennae (feelers) and legs, which they use to feel and smell what is going on around them.
See also Grasshopper.
