Introducing the Eastern Lubber Grasshopper, also known as the Florida Giant Orange Grasshopper. This bright fellow was found on site at Mound House walking around the outside of our offices. The bright tellow and red coloring are a warning to any predators that it is toxic and will make them sick, and if you pick him up, he will make a loud hissing noise and spray a smelly foamy mixture in your direction.
The Eastern Lubber Grasshopper is reaches about 4 inches, are very slow moving and can't fly far. They reach their destination using short clumsy hops or slowly walking. They feed on broadleaf plants and can become a problem when in swarms. According to experts at the University of Florida, a good way to rid your yard of them is by stomping on them or drowning them in a bucket of soapy water.
- Information from http://www.wildflorida.com/articles/Floridas_Giant_Orange_Grasshoppers.php
