Giant weta
Weta are incredible looking creatures. They range in size, but with their big bodies, spiny legs, and curved tusks, they are one of New Zealand's most recognisable creepy-crawlies.
Did you know that weta are nocturnal? Learn more facts about weta in this section.
Habitat destruction and introduced predators are two of the greatest threats to weta.
A number of conservation initiatives are underway for New Zealand's endangered invertebrates.
Find out ways you can help with weta conservation efforts.
Cave weta are found all over New Zealand. They can appear terrifying but this video reveals that these wild-looking weta are actually harmless, deaf and probably more scared of you than you are of them.
Watch a video about the giant weta, which has been around for 190 million years, making it one of New Zealand’s oldest creatures.
Find out how you can create a 'motel' in your garden for weta.
Threatened Weta recovery plan (PDF, 350K)
Successful Translocation of Middle Island tusked weta. DOC Science Poster 59 (PDF, 474K)
Conservation requirements of New Zealand's nationally threatened invertebrates
New Zealand invertebrates factsheet (PDF, 236K)
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