Video about the rare black beauty stick insect
by Mark Frauenfelder from on (#3FQDM)
This striking insect was discovered in Peru in 2005. It has gold eyes, a black body, and tiny red wings. It also has a gland behind its head that sprays a stinky substance when threatened. They have become popular as pets.
From Great Big Story:
This is the black beauty stick insect, a rare species only found in a tiny 12-acre area high in the mountains of northern Peru. Only discovered in 2005, not much is known about these insects, but they are believed to be most active at night when their deep black coloration keeps them hidden from predators. They are also armed with a gland at the rear of their heads which, when threatened, can spray a corrosive, strong-smelling substance. Because their natural habitat is so small, their survival is precarious-thankfully, captive breeding efforts may bring these insects back from the brink.