Some insects, like crickets and their relatives, undergo what is known as incomplete metamorphosis. The immature insects are known as nymphs, and they typically look somewhat similar to adults, but often without functional wings. In order to grow, they need to shed their exoskeleton periodically, a process known as molting.
This bush cricket is molting for the last time. It uses gravity to help pull itself out of its old exoskeleton. After emerging, it pumps fluid through the veins of its wings to expand them into their proper shape. This molt was taking place at night, which is probably the safest time to do so. During the molt, the exoskeleton is soft, so it can expand, so the insect is very vulnerable to predators during the process.
