About 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.
How to Identify Brown Locust
Brown Locust (Locustana pardalina) belongs to the order Orthoptera, family Acrididae. Adults typically measure 30-45 mm.
Brown Locust Habitat
Brown Locust is found in heathland habitats, particularly across South Africa (Karoo region), Namibia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Brown Locust Diet and Feeding
Brown Locust has an omnivorous diet, feeding on both plant and animal matter. This dietary flexibility allows it to exploit a wide range of food sources in its environment.
Where Is Brown Locust Found?
Brown Locust can be found in South Africa (Karoo region), Namibia, where it inhabits heathland environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Brown Locust can be found
Is Brown Locust Dangerous?
Brown Locust is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Brown Locust Role in Nature
Brown Locust plays a role in its ecosystem as part of the food web, serving as both consumer and prey. Insects like Brown Locust are a vital food source for birds, bats, and other wildlife, and contribute to the overall health and balance of their environment.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Brown Locust
What does Brown Locust look like?
The Brown Locust typically measures 30-45 mm.
Where is Brown Locust found?
The Brown Locust is found in South Africa (Karoo region), Namibia and typically inhabits heathland environments.
What does Brown Locust eat?
The Brown Locust has an omnivorous diet, feeding on both plant and animal matter.
Is Brown Locust dangerous to humans?
The Brown Locust is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Brown Locust?
Swarms of brown locusts have plagued South African farmers since the 1700s and remain a major agricultural threat.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Brown Locust (Locustana pardalina). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/brown-locust
MLA:
"Brown Locust." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/brown-locust.