Insect · GBIF taxon 1720876
Red-headed Bush Cricket
Phyllopalpus pulchellusAlso known as Handsome Trig, Handsome Bush Cricket, Red-headed Trig
Red-headed bush crickets are striking small insects distinguished by their brilliant bright red heads, metallic dark bodies, and translucent amber wings. Males possess enlarged maxillary palps that resemble tiny boxing gloves, which they wave rhythmically during courtship and territorial displays. Found primarily in lush shrubs, foliage, and woodland borders across eastern North America, they produce high-pitched musical trills from late summer through autumn.
Vibrant ColorsSinging InsectNocturnal
1 / 7—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Aphids
- Fungal Spores
- Plant Sap
Predators
- Songbirds
- Jumping Spiders
- Praying Mantises
ThreatsHabitat destruction, broad-spectrum pesticide use
HabitatsLow foliage, shrubby meadows, forest edges, suburban gardens
Life span1 year
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- OrderOrthoptera
- FamilyTrigonidiidae
- GenusPhyllopalpus
- SpeciesPhyllopalpus pulchellus
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
- Listen for trills: Scan low shrubbery at night for their rapid metallic chirping sound.
- Look for palps: Search leaves carefully for their bright red head and waving mouthparts.
- Approach gently: Walk softly to avoid ground vibrations that prompt them to drop into cover.
Habitat Neighbor no rights reserved · cc0
Related Cricket Calibas at English Wikipedia / Public domain · cc0
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Mystic Meadows
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