WOODLAND GRASSHOPPER |
OMOCESTUS RUFIPES |
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| Fig 1 |
DESCRIPTION: Length between 13 and 21mm. The rainbow coloured underside of the abdomen is quite impressive with a green, yellow and red sequence running from front to back. Females are brownish with a greenish upper surface whereas males are darker but always have a red tip to the abdomen. If one can get a good look at this species then the white tipped palps are the major ID decider. BEHAVIOUR: Easily disturbed from tussocks and patches of low grass and shrubbery. Will settle for long periods without calling. The call is similar to an alarm clock and is delivered in 5 second periods. DISTRIBUTION: Localised in southern England. HABITAT: Open dry, sunny areas near or within woodlands. PERIOD: July to October. |