Life cycle of a weta

The life cycle of a weta, a large flightless insect native to New Zealand, begins with the female laying eggs in soil or rotting wood. After several weeks, the eggs hatch into nymphs, which resemble miniature adults and undergo multiple molts as they grow. Wetas can take several months to a few years to reach adulthood, depending on the species and environmental conditions. Once mature, they reproduce, continuing the cycle.