Spotting a Giant Walking Stick: Texas Backyard Wonders

If you’ve ever thought a twig in your yard was… well, just a twig, think again! Here at Coast to Country Classroom, we love discovering the little wild surprises in our own backyard. This week, we spotted a giant walking stick on our porch, and it was a reminder of just how amazing nature can be, even right outside your door.

What’s a Giant Walking Stick?

Giant walking sticks (Megaphasma dentricus) are some of the longest insects in North America, native to Texas and surrounding states. They can grow over half a foot long, and their incredible camouflage makes them look just like a twig or stick, perfect for avoiding predators.

The good news? They’re totally harmless. They don’t bite, sting, or bother humans. Instead, they spend their days munching on leaves and staying perfectly still. Their best defense? Freezing in place and swaying ever so slightly to blend in with branches, making it almost impossible to spot them unless you know what to look for.

A Little Entomology Lesson

Spotting a walking stick is a fun introduction to entomology, the study of insects. Entomologists observe, identify, and learn about insects’ behaviors, habitats, and roles in the ecosystem. Kids can learn a lot just by watching these fascinating creatures, how they move, what they eat, and how they stay safe in the wild.

A Backyard Memory

Last year, we found another walking stick, this one had passed away on our porch. Instead of letting it go unnoticed, we carefully framed it as a little piece of backyard entomology art. It’s a reminder of the tiny wild wonders all around us and a great way to spark curiosity in young scientists.

Tips for Spotting Walking Sticks

Look on trees and shrubs, especially oak or mesquite. Watch for anything that looks like a twig but moves slightly. Observe quietly, walking sticks are shy and freeze at the slightest disturbance.

Seeing one of these amazing insects up close is a perfect way to connect kids with nature, teach observation skills, and introduce a hands-on lesson in entomology. So next time you’re on your porch or in the backyard, keep an eye out, you never know what little Texas critter might be hiding in plain sight!

Coast to Country