Rarest insect

According to the latest count (from 2009), there are estimated to be as few as 9–35 Lord Howe Island stick insects (Dryococelus australis) – more informally called "tree lobsters" – in the wild, which means it has been assessed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN. The giant stick insect evolved before the dinosaurs and was presumed extinct for 80 years until scientists rediscovered it in 2001 feeding in a tree on a remote rocky outcrop called Ball's Pyramid, some 23 kilometres (14 miles) away from Lord Howe Island. Several eggs were also found.

The stick insects can grow up to 15 centimetres (6 inches) long and their bodies are approximately 1.3 centimetres (0.5 inches) thick.

There are now several breeding programmes underway at global zoos and museums in order to ensure the survival of this species.

The 561-metre (1,843-foot) Ball's Pyramid is a record holder in its own right, as the tallest sea stack.