The Red-legged grasshopper lives in North America. They are about 1 in long with black, brown, green body and red hind leg as shown in these pictures:
Look Alikes:
- Differential grasshoppers: These grasshoppers are also green or brown in color, with long wings that extend beyond their body. They are known for their large size and distinctive markings, which can include stripes or spots.
- Two-striped grasshoppers: These grasshoppers are similar in appearance to red-legged grasshoppers, with a green or brown body and long, slender legs. They are named for the two dark stripes that run down their wings.
- Yellow-striped grasshoppers: These grasshoppers have a yellowish-green body with dark stripes on their wings and legs. They are similar in size and shape to red-legged grasshoppers but have a different coloration.
- Melanoplus sanguinipes: Also known as the migratory grasshopper, these insects have a similar size and shape to red-legged grasshoppers but have a darker, reddish-brown coloration.
More about different grasshoppers.
Aka Melanoplus Femurrubrum.
They eat soybeans, oats, grass, and crops.
They wake up at 7am and start eating until about 6pm.
They can fly 40 feet.
Infographic
- These grasshoppers can grow up to 2 inches in length and have a wingspan of about 3 inches.
- Red-legged grasshoppers are herbivores and feed on a variety of plants, including grasses, clovers, and vegetables.
- They have strong hind legs that enable them to jump up to 20 times their body length.
- Red-legged grasshoppers are most active during the day, and can often be seen basking in the sun on vegetation.
- These grasshoppers are important prey for a variety of predators, including birds, snakes, and small mammals.
- Red-legged grasshoppers are not considered pests and are actually beneficial to the environment. They help to control plant populations and serve as an important food source for many animals.
- In some cultures, red-legged grasshoppers are considered a delicacy and are eaten roasted or fried.
- Red-legged grasshoppers can produce loud chirping sounds by rubbing their wings together. These sounds are used to attract mates and establish territory.
Red-legged grasshoppers are an important source of food for a variety of predators, including birds, snakes, lizards, and small mammals such as mice and shrews. Some larger insects, such as praying mantises and spiders, may also prey on grasshoppers.
The role of red-legged grasshoppers in the food chain is important, as they serve as a food source for many animals. However, when their populations become too high, they can cause significant damage to crops and vegetation. Natural predators can help to control their populations and maintain balance in the ecosystem.
http://www.uwyo.edu/entomology/grasshoppers/field-guide/mefe.html
