Lubber Grasshopper

eastern_lubber_grasshopper_sm.jpg: Eastern lubber grasshopper
Range: Southeastern United States
Habitat: Woodlands, grasslands, croplands, lawns
Conservation Status:
Scientific Name: Romalea guttata

These striking-looking grasshoppers are larger than those found in Missouri. Immature "lubbers" are typically black with yellow stripes or orange spots, whereas adults are a dull yellow with black markings. The bright colors of both immature and adult lubbers serve as a warning to predators that they are toxic. These grasshoppers sometimes become numerous enough to cause damage to citrus and vegetable crops.