The Red-legged Grasshopper is one of the most abundant and widespread grasshoppers in North America, recognized by the bright red hind tibiae against brown-gray body coloration. It forms the basis of the diet of numerous bird species, lizards, and small mammals across the continent. In drought years it can form outbreak populations damaging to crops.
Best time to see a Red-legged Grasshopper
The best time to see a Red-legged Grasshopper is August–September, when about 67% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 7,604 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Red-legged Grasshopper? What bug is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Red-legged Grasshopper sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spot a Red-legged Grasshopper? Identify it instantly.
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal for an instant ID, its rarity, and a live map of where it is being seen near you.
Get HuckGet an alert when a Red-legged Grasshopper is spotted
Pick a park, state, or city and we’ll email you when one turns up there. One check a day, only when there’s something new.
Free. Unsubscribe from any email. See our Privacy Policy.
Love insects & arthropods? Get Huck field notes
Spotting tips, new species, and the best of what people are finding in the wild - straight to your inbox.