Romalea microptera (Eastern Lubber Grasshopper)

Romalea microptera, the eastern lubber grasshopper, is a large, flightless grasshopper found in the southeastern United States. It occurs in habitats including swamps, open woodlands, weedy fields, and ditches. Adults vary in color: yellow and orange forms are common in the eastern part of the range, while darker forms also occur. The bright pattern warns predators of its chemical defenses. This grasshopper feeds on a wide range of plants, including herbs, shrubs, and grasses, and can damage garden and agricultural plants. Young grasshoppers often remain together after hatching, while adults become more dispersed.