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The brown locust (Locustana pardalina) is a highly destructive, migratory species endemic to arid regions of South Africa, particularly the Karoo. Known for frequent, often annual, swarming outbreaks, it poses a major threat to agriculture, feeding on crops and pasture. Their eggs are drought-resistant, able to survive in soil for up to three years.
Key Facts about Brown Locusts:
Outbreak Frequency: They are the most common plague locust in South Africa, with outbreaks occurring in 9 out of 10 years during the 20th century, typically starting after rains follow a drought.
Habitat: They thrive in the semi-arid Karoo region, extending into Namibia and Botswana.
Life Cycle: Eggs are laid in the soil and can enter diapause (a state of suspended development) to survive, hatching within 10 days after 15–25 mm of rain.
Diet: Primarily grass-feeders, but can devastate crops like maize and grazing land during swarms.
Control: Due to their economic impact, they are classified as a national pest, with government-supported control efforts (often using insecticides at night).
