The oblong-winged katydid (Lycorma delicatula), is normally a bright green, helping it blend in with foliage. On rare occasions, however, it can be found in shades of pink, yellow, tan, or orange. In the early 1900s, scientists were divided on the cause of these unusual colors. Some declared it was the result of the changing seasons, the insect’s age, or other environmental factors. In 1916, entomologist Joseph Hancock successfully bred pink katydids in captivity to show that the colors were the result of genetics. 

Our embroidered patch featuring the iconic pink morph measures 4" wide. Iron on HIGH.

Originally from the August 2023 Bug Box.