Photos By Gail

Giant Malaysian Leaf Insects, also known as walking leaves or leaf mimics, are fascinating creatures found in Southeast Asia. They belong to the order Phasmatodea, which includes stick insects and leaf insects. These insects are known for their remarkable leaf-like appearance, which helps them blend seamlessly into their surroundings, providing camouflage and protection from predators.

Leaf insects have evolved to closely resemble leaves, with their bodies often shaped and colored like leaves, complete with veins and irregular edges. They typically have a flattened body and broad, leaf-shaped wings. These adaptations allow them to hide in plain sight among foliage, making them difficult to spot. This fine specimen was spotted by me on my initial visit to the newly-opened Richard Gilder Center the American Museum of Natural History, which you really should pain to list s soon as possible, as it’s a fantastic way to spend a summer day!

Richard Gilder Center at the AMNH