Kansas’s tallgrass and shortgrass prairies offer a classic American landscape for many grasshopper species. Understanding the Types Of Grasshoppers In Kansas helps you identify what’s hopping in your backyard or farm field. This guide covers the most common species you’ll encounter across the Sunflower State.
Grasshoppers play a big role in Kansas ecosystems. Some are harmless, while others can damage crops. Knowing which is which helps you manage them better.
Common Grasshopper Families Found In Kansas
Kansas hosts over 100 grasshopper species. They belong to two main families: Acrididae (short-horned grasshoppers) and Tettigoniidae (long-horned grasshoppers or katydids). Most of the ones you see are short-horned.
Short-Horned Grasshoppers (Acrididae)
These have short antennae, usually shorter than their body. They are the typical grasshoppers you see jumping through fields. They make sounds by rubbing their legs against their wings.
- Most common in Kansas prairies
- Active during the day
- Many species are plant feeders
Long-Horned Grasshoppers (Tettigoniidae)
These have antennae longer than their body. They include katydids and meadow grasshoppers. They are more active at night and often green in color.
- Camouflage well in vegetation
- Make sounds by rubbing wings together
- Less common than short-horned types
Types Of Grasshoppers In Kansas
Now let’s look at the specific species you’ll find. Each has unique features and behaviors.
Differential Grasshopper
This is one of the most widespread grasshoppers in Kansas. It’s large, growing up to 1.5 inches long. Its body is brown or olive with black markings on the hind legs.
You’ll find them in croplands and pastures. They eat a wide variety of plants, including corn and alfalfa. They can become pests in large numbers.
- Size: 1.2 to 1.5 inches
- Color: Brown with black chevron marks
- Habitat: Fields, gardens, roadsides
Red-Legged Grasshopper
This species has bright red or orange hind legs. It’s medium-sized, about 1 inch long. Its body is brown or gray with dark spots.
Red-legged grasshoppers are common in grasslands and crop fields. They prefer grassy areas but will eat broadleaf plants too. They are active from early summer to fall.
- Size: 0.8 to 1.1 inches
- Color: Brown with red legs
- Habitat: Prairies, meadows, crop edges
Two-Striped Grasshopper
This grasshopper gets its name from two pale stripes running down its back. It’s large, reaching up to 1.6 inches. Its body is greenish-brown or yellow-brown.
Two-striped grasshoppers live in moist areas like ditches and irrigated fields. They eat grasses and crops. They are strong fliers and can move long distances.
- Size: 1.2 to 1.6 inches
- Color: Brown with yellow stripes
- Habitat: Wet meadows, crop fields
Migratory Grasshopper
This species is famous for forming large swarms. It’s medium-sized, about 1 inch long. Its color varies from green to brown to gray.
Migratory grasshoppers are found across Kansas. They prefer open grasslands and can damage wheat and other grains. They are less common now than in the past.
- Size: 0.8 to 1.2 inches
- Color: Variable, often mottled
- Habitat: Grasslands, crop fields
Carolina Grasshopper
This is a large, heavy-bodied grasshopper. It’s dark brown or black with yellow spots. Its wings have a black band. It grows up to 2 inches long.
Carolina grasshoppers live in open, sunny areas with bare soil. They are common in pastures and along roads. They eat grasses and weeds.
- Size: 1.5 to 2 inches
- Color: Dark with yellow markings
- Habitat: Bare ground, short grass
Clear-Winged Grasshopper
This species has transparent wings with no dark bands. It’s medium-sized, about 1 inch long. Its body is brown or gray with a pale stripe on the back.
Clear-winged grasshoppers prefer shortgrass prairies. They are common in western Kansas. They eat grasses and can damage rangeland.
- Size: 0.8 to 1.2 inches
- Color: Brown with pale stripe
- Habitat: Shortgrass prairies
Green-Striped Grasshopper
This grasshopper has a bright green stripe down its back. It’s medium-sized, about 1 inch long. Its body is brown or green with a white line on the side.
Green-striped grasshoppers live in tallgrass prairies and meadows. They eat grasses and forbs. They are common in eastern Kansas.
- Size: 0.9 to 1.3 inches
- Color: Brown with green stripe
- Habitat: Tallgrass prairies
Grasshopper Habitats In Kansas
Different species prefer different habitats. Knowing where to look helps you identify them.
Tallgrass Prairies
Eastern Kansas has tallgrass prairies. These areas have deep soil and lots of plant variety. Common species here include green-striped grasshoppers and red-legged grasshoppers.
Shortgrass Prairies
Western Kansas has shortgrass prairies. These are drier with less plant cover. Clear-winged grasshoppers and Carolina grasshoppers are common here.
Croplands
Farm fields attract many grasshopper species. Differential and two-striped grasshoppers often feed on crops. They can cause economic damage in large numbers.
Roadsides And Ditches
These areas provide food and shelter. You’ll find many species along roads. Two-striped grasshoppers especially like moist ditches.
How To Identify Grasshoppers In Kansas
Identifying grasshoppers takes practice. Here are steps to help you.
- Look at the antennae. Short antennae mean short-horned family.
- Check the leg color. Red legs point to red-legged grasshopper.
- Look for stripes. Two stripes on the back means two-striped grasshopper.
- Note the size. Large grasshoppers over 1.5 inches are often differential or Carolina.
- Observe the habitat. Wet areas attract different species than dry areas.
Use a field guide for more detail. The Kansas State University extension office has good resources.
Grasshopper Life Cycle In Kansas
Grasshoppers go through simple metamorphosis. They have three stages: egg, nymph, and adult.
Egg Stage
Female grasshoppers lay eggs in the soil. They lay them in pods, each containing 20 to 100 eggs. The eggs stay in the ground over winter.
Nymph Stage
Nymphs hatch in spring. They look like small adults but have no wings. They molt several times as they grow. This stage lasts 4 to 6 weeks.
Adult Stage
Adults have fully developed wings. They can fly and reproduce. Most adults live 2 to 3 months. They die in fall after laying eggs.
Grasshopper Behavior And Diet
Grasshoppers are herbivores. They eat a variety of plants. Some species prefer grasses, while others eat broadleaf plants.
Most grasshoppers are active during the day. They bask in the sun to warm up. They jump or fly to escape predators.
Grasshoppers make sounds to communicate. Males rub their legs against their wings to attract females. This is called stridulation.
Economic Impact Of Grasshoppers In Kansas
Grasshoppers can cause significant damage to crops and rangeland. In outbreak years, they can destroy entire fields.
Crop Damage
Differential and two-striped grasshoppers are major crop pests. They eat corn, wheat, alfalfa, and soybeans. They can reduce yields by 20% or more.
Rangeland Damage
Clear-winged and migratory grasshoppers damage rangeland. They eat grasses that cattle need. This reduces grazing capacity.
Control Methods
Farmers use several methods to control grasshoppers. These include:
- Insecticides: Applied to fields when grasshopper numbers are high
- Biological control: Natural enemies like birds, spiders, and parasitic flies
- Cultural control: Early planting and crop rotation
Beneficial Grasshoppers In Kansas
Not all grasshoppers are pests. Some provide benefits to ecosystems.
Food For Wildlife
Grasshoppers are a key food source for birds, reptiles, and mammals. They are especially important for quail and pheasants. Young birds need high-protein insects to grow.
Nutrient Cycling
Grasshoppers help break down plant material. Their droppings return nutrients to the soil. This helps maintain soil health.
Pollination
Some grasshoppers visit flowers for nectar. They can transfer pollen between plants. This helps with plant reproduction.
Common Misidentifications
People often confuse grasshoppers with other insects. Here are some common mix-ups.
Grasshoppers Vs. Crickets
Crickets have longer antennae than grasshoppers. They are also more active at night. Crickets make sounds by rubbing their wings together.
Grasshoppers Vs. Katydids
Katydids have very long antennae. They are usually green and leaf-shaped. They are more common in trees and shrubs.
Grasshoppers Vs. Locusts
Locusts are a type of grasshopper that forms swarms. The migratory grasshopper is the only locust species in Kansas. True locusts are rare here now.
Seasonal Guide To Grasshoppers In Kansas
Grasshopper activity changes with the seasons. Here’s what to expect.
Spring
Nymphs hatch from eggs in late spring. They are small and wingless. You’ll see them in grassy areas.
Summer
Adults appear in early summer. They are most active in July and August. This is the best time for identification.
Fall
Adults lay eggs and die in fall. You’ll see fewer grasshoppers as temperatures drop. Eggs remain in the soil until spring.
How To Photograph Grasshoppers
Taking good photos helps with identification. Here are tips.
- Use a macro lens for close-ups.
- Photograph in the morning when grasshoppers are slow.
- Get a side view to show leg color and stripes.
- Include a top view to show wing patterns.
- Note the habitat in your photo.
Grasshopper Conservation In Kansas
Grasshoppers are important for biodiversity. Conservation efforts help maintain healthy populations.
Habitat Preservation
Protecting prairies and grasslands helps grasshoppers. These areas provide food and shelter. Avoid overgrazing and excessive mowing.
Reducing Pesticide Use
Pesticides kill beneficial insects along with pests. Use targeted treatments when possible. This protects grasshopper populations.
Supporting Native Plants
Native plants provide better habitat for grasshoppers. They offer food and shelter. Plant native grasses and wildflowers in your yard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common grasshopper in Kansas?
The differential grasshopper is one of the most common. You’ll find it in fields and gardens across the state.
Are there poisonous grasshoppers in Kansas?
No grasshoppers in Kansas are poisonous. Some may bite if handled, but they are not dangerous.
How do I control grasshoppers in my garden?
Use row covers to protect plants. Encourage birds and spiders. Apply insecticidal soap for small infestations.
What do grasshoppers eat in Kansas?
Most eat grasses and leaves. Some prefer crops like corn and wheat. Others eat weeds and wild plants.
When do grasshoppers appear in Kansas?
Nymphs appear in late spring. Adults are common from June through September. They are most active in summer.
Final Tips For Grasshopper Watching
Grasshopper watching is a fun outdoor activity. Here are some final tips.
- Go out in the morning when they are less active.
- Walk slowly and look for movement in grass.
- Use a net to catch them for closer look.
- Release them after identification.
- Keep a journal of species you see.
Kansas has a rich diversity of grasshoppers. Each species plays a role in the ecosystem. By learning to identify them, you can better understand your local environment.
Whether you are a farmer, gardener, or nature lover, knowing the Types Of Grasshoppers In Kansas helps you appreciate these insects. They are a vital part of the prairie landscape.
Next time you walk through a Kansas field, take a moment to look down. You might spot a red-legged grasshopper or a two-striped one. Each has its own story to tell.