Arkansas’s mix of forests, farmlands, and wetlands provides habitats for multiple grasshopper species. When you step outside in the Natural State, you are likely to hear the buzz and click of these insects everywhere. Understanding the types of grasshoppers in arkansas helps you identify them and manage your garden or farm better.
Grasshoppers belong to the order Orthoptera, which also includes crickets and katydids. Arkansas hosts over 100 species, but only a few are common enough to notice. Some are harmless, while others can damage crops. Let’s break down the main groups you will encounter.
Types Of Grasshoppers In Arkansas
This section covers the most frequent species you will see in fields, backyards, and forests. Each has unique traits and behaviors.
Differential Grasshopper
The differential grasshopper (Melanoplus differentialis) is one of the largest and most destructive in Arkansas. It grows up to 1.5 inches long and has a yellowish-brown body with black markings. You will find it in tall grass, along roadsides, and in soybean fields.
- Color: Yellowish-brown with black chevrons on the hind legs
- Size: 1.2 to 1.8 inches
- Habitat: Open fields, gardens, and crop borders
- Damage: Eats leaves of corn, soybeans, and vegetables
Red-Legged Grasshopper
The red-legged grasshopper (Melanoplus femurrubrum) is very common across Arkansas. Its name comes from the bright red or orange color on its lower legs. This species prefers moist areas like ditches and pastures.
- Color: Brown or green body with red tibiae
- Size: 0.8 to 1.2 inches
- Habitat: Wet meadows, alfalfa fields, and grassy roadsides
- Damage: Feeds on clover, alfalfa, and small grains
Two-Striped Grasshopper
The two-striped grasshopper (Melanoplus bivittatus) has two distinct yellow stripes running from its head to the wing tips. It is large and robust, often found in weedy areas and along fence rows.
- Color: Green or brown with two pale yellow stripes
- Size: 1.2 to 1.6 inches
- Habitat: Weedy patches, crop margins, and gardens
- Damage: Attacks corn, soybeans, and fruit trees
Migratory Grasshopper
The migratory grasshopper (Melanoplus sanguinipes) is known for its swarming behavior. In Arkansas, it can cause serious damage to wheat and oats. It has a brownish-gray body with a distinctive dark band behind the eye.
- Color: Brownish-gray with dark eye stripe
- Size: 0.9 to 1.3 inches
- Habitat: Dry grasslands and cereal crops
- Damage: Devours grain heads and leaves
Carolina Grasshopper
The Carolina grasshopper (Dissosteira carolina) is a large, broad-winged species. When it flies, you see black wings with yellow borders. It prefers bare soil and gravelly areas.
- Color: Grayish-brown with black and yellow wings
- Size: 1.4 to 2.0 inches
- Habitat: Roadsides, dirt paths, and dry fields
- Damage: Minor, mostly eats grasses and weeds
Eastern Lubber Grasshopper
The eastern lubber grasshopper (Romalea microptera) is rare in Arkansas but can appear in the southern counties. It is huge, clumsy, and brightly colored with yellow, red, and black patterns. It cannot fly well.
- Color: Black with yellow stripes and red markings
- Size: 2.0 to 3.0 inches
- Habitat: Moist woodlands and gardens
- Damage: Feeds on many garden plants but moves slowly
Where To Find Grasshoppers In Arkansas
Grasshoppers are everywhere, but some spots are better for spotting them. Knowing their habitats helps you identify them faster.
Farmlands And Pastures
Agricultural areas are prime real estate for grasshoppers. Crops like soybeans, corn, and alfalfa attract many species. You will see differential and red-legged grasshoppers here most often.
Forest Edges And Clearings
Forest edges provide shelter and food. Look for two-striped and Carolina grasshoppers along sunny trails and clearings. They like the mix of grass and shrubs.
Wetlands And Ditches
Wet areas support moisture-loving species. Red-legged grasshoppers thrive in ditches and wet meadows. They need damp soil for egg laying.
Urban Gardens And Lawns
Your backyard can host several species. Differential and migratory grasshoppers often invade gardens. They eat vegetables and ornamental plants.
How To Identify Grasshoppers In Arkansas
Identification is easier when you look at key features. Use these steps to tell species apart.
- Check size: Measure from head to wing tip. Large ones are over 1.5 inches.
- Look at color patterns: Stripes, leg colors, and wing markings matter.
- Examine the pronotum: The shield behind the head has ridges or bumps.
- Watch behavior: Some fly far, others hop short distances.
- Note habitat: Dry fields vs. wet meadows host different types.
Life Cycle Of Arkansas Grasshoppers
Grasshoppers go through simple metamorphosis. Understanding their life cycle helps with control.
Egg Stage
Females lay eggs in the soil during late summer and fall. The eggs are in a pod-like structure. They overwinter and hatch in spring.
Nymph Stage
Nymphs look like small adults without wings. They molt several times. This stage lasts 4 to 6 weeks.
Adult Stage
Adults have fully developed wings and can reproduce. They live for 2 to 3 months. Most damage occurs in late summer.
Grasshopper Damage In Arkansas
Grasshoppers can cause serious harm to crops and gardens. Here is what to watch for.
- Defoliation: They eat leaves, leaving only veins.
- Stem damage: They chew stems, causing plants to wilt.
- Grain loss: They clip heads of wheat and oats.
- Vegetable damage: They eat beans, tomatoes, and squash.
How To Manage Grasshoppers
You can reduce grasshopper numbers without harsh chemicals. Try these methods.
Cultural Control
Keep your garden clean. Remove weeds and tall grass where they hide. Till soil in fall to destroy eggs.
Biological Control
Encourage natural predators. Birds, spiders, and praying mantises eat grasshoppers. You can also use fungal sprays like Beauveria bassiana.
Chemical Control
Use insecticides only when necessary. Baits with carbaryl work well. Spray in early morning when grasshoppers are slow.
Interesting Facts About Arkansas Grasshoppers
These insects are more than pests. Here are some cool facts.
- Grasshoppers can jump 20 times their body length.
- They make sounds by rubbing their legs against their wings.
- Some species change color based on temperature.
- Grasshoppers are a food source for many birds and reptiles.
Common Misidentifications
People often confuse grasshoppers with other insects. Here is how to tell them apart.
Grasshopper Vs. Cricket
Crickets have long antennae and are usually nocturnal. Grasshoppers have short antennae and are active during the day.
Grasshopper Vs. Katydid
Katydids look like leaves and have very long antennae. Grasshoppers have thicker bodies and shorter antennae.
Seasonal Activity In Arkansas
Grasshopper activity changes with the seasons. Plan your observations accordingly.
- Spring: Nymphs appear. They are small and easy to miss.
- Summer: Adults are active. This is the best time to see them.
- Fall: Females lay eggs. Activity decreases as weather cools.
- Winter: Eggs are dormant. No adults survive.
Grasshopper Species Not To Worry About
Not all grasshoppers are pests. Some are beneficial or harmless.
- Slant-faced grasshoppers: They eat mostly grass and rarely damage crops.
- Spur-throated grasshoppers: Some species are minor feeders.
- Band-winged grasshoppers: They prefer dry, open areas and cause little harm.
How To Photograph Grasshoppers
Getting a good photo helps with identification. Follow these tips.
- Use a macro lens or close-up setting.
- Approach slowly from behind.
- Shoot in early morning when they are cold and slow.
- Focus on the head and leg patterns.
Resources For Further Learning
If you want to learn more, check these sources.
- University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service
- Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission
- Field guides on Orthoptera of North America
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Most Common Types Of Grasshoppers In Arkansas?
The most common are differential, red-legged, two-striped, and migratory grasshoppers. These four species make up most sightings.
Are There Any Poisonous Grasshoppers In Arkansas?
No, no grasshopper in Arkansas is poisonous to humans. The eastern lubber can cause mild irritation if handled, but it is not toxic.
How Can I Tell A Grasshopper From A Cricket?
Grasshoppers have short antennae and are active during the day. Crickets have long antennae and come out at night.
Do Grasshoppers Bite Humans?
They can bite if handled roughly, but it is rare and not dangerous. Their jaws are designed for chewing plants.
What Time Of Year Are Grasshoppers Most Active In Arkansas?
They are most active from late June through September. This is when adults are feeding and reproducing.
Understanding the types of grasshoppers in arkansas helps you appreciate the diversity around you. Whether you are a gardener, farmer, or nature lover, knowing these species makes your time outdoors more interesting. Keep an eye out for their unique colors and behaviors next time you walk through a field.