Common field grasshopper

Common Field Grasshopper

Common Field Grasshopper ©Philip Precey

Common field grasshopper

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Scientific name: Chorthippus brunneus
The Common field grasshopper can be found in sunny, grassy areas, particularly gardens, throughout summer. Males can be seen rubbing their legs against their wings to create a 'song' for the females.

Top facts

Stats

Length: 1.8-2.4cm

Conservation status

Common.

When to see

May to October

About

Common and widespread, the Common field grasshopper is ubiquitous in any open, sunny, grassy area, including our gardens. Adults are present from June until late autumn, feeding on plants and grasses. A gregarious species, males can be seen displaying to females by rubbing their legs against their wings to create a 'song' - in this case, it is brief, single chirrup, repeated at short intervals. After mating, the eggs are laid in the soil ready to hatch the following summer.

What to look for

The Common field grasshopper is usually mottled brown in colour, with barring on the sides. It is most easily identified when seen up close as the very hairy underside becomes visible.

Where to find

Widespread.

Did you know?

There are about 25,000 species Orthopteroids worldwide - the order of insects that grasshoppers and crickets belong to. In the UK, there are 11 native species of grasshopper, including the Common field grasshopper, but about 30 species actually live and breed here.