Brown Locust vs Hairy Whirligig Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Brown Locust | Hairy Whirligig Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Locustana pardalina | Orectochilus villosus |
| Order | Orthoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Acrididae | Gyrinidae |
| Size | 30-45 mm | 5-7 mm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | South Africa (Karoo region), Namibia | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Brown Locust
A medium-sized brown locust endemic to southern Africa that periodically swarms in the Karoo region. Nymphs are known as voetgangers (foot walkers).
Did You Know?
Swarms of brown locusts have plagued South African farmers since the 1700s and remain a major agricultural threat.
Hairy Whirligig Beetle
A nocturnal whirligig beetle covered in fine golden hairs that trap air underwater. Unlike other whirligigs it hides under stones by day.
Did You Know?
It is the only European whirligig beetle that is primarily nocturnal rather than diurnal.