Apr 21, 2025

10 insects that are as colourful as birds

TOI Lifestyle Desk

Colourful insects

Think only birds bring colour to nature? Think again. These insects dazzle with colours that give competition to tropical parrots. From shimmering beetles to petal-mimicking mantises, here are 10 insects that look like they walked out of a rainbow.

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Orchid mantis

Found in Southeast Asia, the orchid mantis blends beauty and camouflage. With hues of white, pink, and purple, it mimics orchid petals so well that predators and prey often mistake it for a real flower.

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Jewel beetles

These metallic-shelled beetles sparkle in green, blue, and gold. Their iridescence shifts in the light, making them look like tiny, living jewels crawling through the forest.

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Rosy maple moth

With vibrant pink and yellow wings, the rosy maple moth looks like a flying piece of candy. Found in North America, it's one of the most colourful moths you’ll ever see.

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Peacock spider

No bigger than a pencil eraser, the peacock spider is filled with blues, reds, and greens. Males flash these hues during their funky mating dances like nature’s tiniest showmen.

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Emerald ash borer

This small beetle has a sparkly shimmer. With a vivid emerald-green body, it stands out like a gem on bark. But beware, its beauty masks its tree-killing nature.

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Ladybug

Ladybugs are famous for their red and black spots, but did you know they come in orange, yellow, and even black varieties? We can definitely call them tiny fashionistas!

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Luna moth

Large and luminous, the luna moth has pale green wings and an elegant tail. Its ethereal beauty lights up the night sky like a fluttering moonbeam.

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Cuckoo wasp

Covered in iridescent shades of blue, green, and pink, the cuckoo wasp glitters like a jewel. Its armour-like body shines like a rainbow you can almost touch.

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Golden tortoise beetle

The golden tortoise beetle's shell is shiny and reflective, gleaming like 24-karat gold. It can even change colour depending on mood and environment.

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Beautiful demoiselle

This dazzling dragonfly sports metallic blue or green wings that shimmer in sunlight. Often found near clear streams, it’s a flying jewel of freshwater habitats.

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