Tree Weta Encounters - why do they smell? and other questions

I've always felt that wētā, New Zealand's bizarre endemic insects, have an unfair reputation. They seem to bring out the worst in people, who shudder at the thought of touching those feelers and spiky legs. Children are often more curious about insects and bugs and less judgemental. So I happily included a tree wētā in Whose Feet are These? And it's one of the few animals in the book that most children guess right straightaway.

From "Whose Feet are These?" a male weta

Here's some of the things I learned about wētā when I was writing Whose Feet are These? and In the Garden:

DOC not just about building bridges

Forest and Bird have declared today "Love Doc Day". A perfect occasion to show my appreciation of the work the Department of Conservation does for New Zealand/Aotearoa and our natural treasures.

DOC's work has become fundamental to the way we enjoy and interact with our natural environment, from its visible structures such as huts and bridges, to visitor information and helpful hut wardens. But this experience is nothing if our native species are not protected; for then there would be little natural native environment left to enjoy.

DOC's work isn't just about building bridges, but I'm sure grateful this one was there