Spur-throated locusts warning

Rangers from the Darling Livestock Health and Pest Authority are urging landholders to monitor their properties for spur-throated locusts, following reports of swarms north west of Bourke.

Col Betts, Darling LHPA senior ranger, says spur-throated locusts were active in the area during late summer and early winter this year causing economic damage to agricultural and horticultural crops, and pastures.

"Recently swarms have been reported in the north west of the Darling LHPA, around Fords Bridge, Enngonia and Wanaaring," he said.

"The Australian Plague Locust Commission is currently surveying the area to determine the extent of the swarms, however we need landholders to monitor their properties and report sightings to their local LHPA office.

"Reporting is critical, so we can monitor their movement and development and be prepared for control activities, where safety, environmental and insecticide requirements can be met.

"These locusts are much larger than the Australian Plague Locust and feed on all types of crops, with irrigated crops and winter crops particularly at risk."

Spur-throated locusts don’t band together like the plague locust nymphs, making them more difficult to control.

"We are expecting these locusts to intensify during spring, and at high densities this species can cause severe economic damage to agriculture," Mr Betts said.
 
"Adults often undertake migratory movements during spring and early summer, which is why we need all landholders to check and report now.

"The risk is that they aren’t reported, and we aren’t adequately prepared to be in a position to assist landholders prevent damage to crops."

Landholders and agronomists are encouraged to report sightings of spur-throated locusts to your local LHPA office; Bourke 6872 2322, Brewarrina, 6839 2047, Cobar 6836 2081 or Wanaaring 6874 7749.

Media contact: Kylie Dunn 6391 3720 / 0428 465 378