There are only two species of Lubber Grasshoppers found in southeastern Arizona; the Horse Lubber (Taeniopoda eques) and the Plains Lubber (Brachystola magna). Both live up to the name lubber as they are large and clumsy grasshoppers.
The Horse Lubber has bright red wings and can fly a little ways, but has they get older during their short life span their flights become brief and clumsy. Fun to watch though.
Plains Lubbers are wingless, but great hoppers, though not so great at the landing part. The name Brachystola means short robe and I think it refers to their short forewings, which are pink with black spots. Pretty cute. I think short robes will be trending soon.
I’ve told the story of the yucca moths and the soaptree yuccas many times. I love to tell it when I give talks and...
Here’s to a glorious monsoon season! The photo is mine and taken at our home.
Petey laments some invasive plant species and in particular a non-native grass that is spreading in the hills near his home.
