Hobbies And Interests
Habitat
Most Monkey Grasshoppers in the US inhabit the grasslands and deserts of California, Nevada, Arizona and other hot arid areas. Most of the thirteen species identified and monitored by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service live in the southwestern United States. They are also fond of tropical rain forests, where they can use their long legs to travel quickly and effectively in the dense foliage.
Distinctive Traits
The Monkey Grasshopper has physical characteristics that set it apart from its other insect peers immediately. If you are in the right area, you will know the Monkey Grasshopper as soon as you see it. This species is noted for its long legs, short fat antennae and bright distinctive colors. It also has an impressive jumping ability thanks to its long legs.
Colors
They Monkey Grasshopper often has bright yellow body crowned by a two abnormally long yellow and green legs on one end and a light blue head at the other. Some species, like the Ball`s Monkey Grasshopper, are a mottled brown to blend with its preferred desert home. These bright colors also help the insect to camouflage in its natural environment, attract and recognize other grasshoppers and are also an indication of possible poison. Bright colors in nature are often indicators of venom.
Endangered Grasshoppers
Most of the time grasshoppers are seen as a crowd of pests, but one species of Monkey Grasshopper is actually a candidate for the endangered species list. The Desert Monkey Grasshopper was evaluated four times by the US Fish and Wildlife Service to be listed as an endangered or threatened species. This is certainly a change from how grasshoppers are usually viewed; as crowds of ravenous pests.