Locals encouraged to report plague locust sightings

Local Land Services (LLS) is encouraging landholders across NSW to stay alert for and report any signs of Australian plague locusts, following recent reports of activity in parts of western and central NSW. Landholders and the general community play a critical role in reporting sightings of plague locusts and in continually monitoring the situation on their properties. Adult Australian plague locusts can be distinguished from other species by large dark spots on the tip of the hind wings and distinctive red hindleg shanks. Adult body colour can be grey, brown or green, with males measuring 25-30mm long while females are 30-42mm long. “Every report helps build a clearer picture of locust activity across the state and support surveillance and management efforts,” NSW Plague Locust Commissioner Ian Walker said. "Signs of locust activity on your property can include dense black bands of hoppers, vegetation damage and the buzzing or rustling sound of insects. "Make sure you check for hatching sites, in hard loamy soils near roads, crops and farm structures. "It is vital we get started on any ground control programs as early as possible to greatly reduce the likelihood of new hatchings which could lead to increased activity and populations this spring." Landholders are also reminded they have a legal duty to report any locust activity to a LLS biosecurity officer within one working day of detection and undertake appropriate control measures. When making a report, provide the location of the sighting, in GPS coordinates where possible, the life stage observed, an estimate of numbers or density, photos or videos and contact details. LLS biosecurity officers assess each report and may undertake on ground inspections where required. Following assessment, landholders are provided with advice on appropriate next steps, which may include continued monitoring, surveillance or control measures depending on the lifecycle and density of the locust population. Plague locusts are a damaging, recurrent pest insect, impacting pastures, crops and vegetation, and can cause large economic losses for affected farmers, community members and the agriculture industry. It's essential that landholders and the community work together to monitor, report sightings and undertake control works to mitigate the potential damage locusts can have on crops and pastures. Report plague locust sightings or activity by contacting your Local Land Services biosecurity officer on 1300 795 299. More information is available at www.nsw.gov.au/locusts