42 Metriophasma diocles

Phasmidae. Body length 82mm.
Our first find this trip! A pretty little stick insect which mimics dead grass at rest, laying along the leaf or stem. If disturbed it raises its wings like sails in an attempt at shock reaction from potential predators. Although not brilliant colours, the peacock blue flush at the wing- roots, and the dark- lined wings certainly make this little insect interesting.