
Community identification
Migratory Locust
Locusta migratoria
- Order & Family
- Order: Orthoptera, Family: Acrididae
- Size
- 40 to 60 millimeters (1.6 to 2.4 inches) in length
Natural Habitat
Grasslands, agricultural fields, scrublands, and open areas with sparse vegetation in Africa, Asia, Australia, and parts of Europe.
Diet & Feeding
Herbivorous, feeding primarily on grasses, cereal crops, and various green vegetation.
Behavior Patterns
Exhibits two phases: solitary and gregarious. In the gregarious phase, large numbers form swarms that migrate long distances and feed voraciously.
Risks & Benefits
Major agricultural pest capable of devastating crops and causing food shortages during severe swarming outbreaks. Serves as a food source for birds, reptiles, and small mammals in natural ecosystems.