Experts explain spike in grasshoppers across Coachella Valley

COACHELLA VALLEY, Calif. (KESQ) - Residents across the Coachella Valley may be noticing more grasshoppers hopping around lately.

Many locals say the insects seem more noticeable than usual.

“This morning, we noticed one between the screen and the window and it was still alive, jumping around,” Scott Faries said. “We were able to tag team and move the screen without hurting the grasshopper. Get it out of there and let her go."

Local entomologist Dr. Chen Young says the answer largely comes down to the weather.

“We had such high precipitation during the winter months, so it triggered the eggs to hatch earlier,” Young explained. “Then we got nice, warm spring temperatures and more rain, which created very good vegetation and once they hatch, they grow quickly.”

According to Young, most of the grasshoppers currently being seen are adults. That’s good news because the most destructive stage of their life cycle happens earlier.

“They already went through the feeding stage because it’s the immature stage that makes the most damage," Young said.

Experts say the population surge has already reached its peak and should gradually decline. Natural predators in the environment will also help control the numbers. If you see one, Young says the best thing to do is simply leave it alone.

“If they get to your plants, just hand catch them and show them the way," he said.

For now, many residents say the extra insects aren’t a major concern.

Stay with News Channel 3 for more.