What are New Zealand's Giant Wētā known as?

New Zealand's Giant Wētā are known as the 'God of ugly things' and are considered a national treasure.

Are Giant Wētā insects protected in New Zealand?

Yes, Giant Wētā are strictly protected under New Zealand law, making it illegal to own them or remove them from the wild without permits.

How are Giant Wētā being conserved in New Zealand?

Conservation efforts include captive breeding programs, research, and releasing mature Giant Wētā onto predator-free islands.

Home / Environment / NZ's 'Ugly God' Insect: A National Treasure

NZ's 'Ugly God' Insect: A National Treasure

26 Jan

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Summary

Giant Wētā, nicknamed 'God of ugly things,' are national treasures.
Strict laws prevent buying, selling, or owning these massive insects.
Conservation efforts include captive breeding and predator-free islands.

NZ's 'Ugly God' Insect: A National Treasure

New Zealand is home to the extraordinary Giant Wētā, an insect group often called the "God of ugly things" and officially designated as a national treasure.

These massive, flightless crickets are endemic to New Zealand's outlying islands. Some species, like the Little Barrier Island giant wētā (Wētāpunga), can weigh as much as a sparrow, making them some of the heaviest insects globally.

Despite their intimidating appearance and names, Giant Wētā are generally passive herbivores or scavengers. They exhibit island gigantism, growing large due to a lack of mainland predators.