New species of giant stick insect discovered

NORTH QUEENSLAND, Australia (CNN) - A researcher in Australia has identified a new supersized stick insect.

The species was discovered in high altitudes in North Queensland.

The insect measures about 40 centimeters long, or approximately 15.75 inches, and weighs about 44 grams, or around 1.55 ounces, which is slightly less than a golf ball.

A new giant stick insect species has been discovered in North Queensland, Australia.

Researchers at James Cook University say that makes it one of Australia’s heaviest insects.

They believe the species wasn’t discovered until now because it’s habitat is too difficult to access.

Two specimens of the stick insect are now in the Queensland Museum.