Plague Locusts - Spring Hatching
TL;DR
There is an increased risk of high locust activity in north-west Victoria this spring.
Location
Yarriambiack
Plague Locusts - Spring Hatching
Spring Hatching
There is an increased risk of high locust activity in north-west Victoria this spring.
High locust numbers recorded across the Mallee last autumn, combined with above-average rainfall and favourable soil moisture conditions, have created ideal conditions for spring hatching and population growth.
Stead rainfall, warmer winter temperatures and increased egg laying have also contributed to higher locust numbers in New South Wales and South Australia and increased the risk of locust moving into Victoria.
A plague is not predicted for 2026-27, but localised high locust populations are possible, particularly in the Mallee and Wimmera.
Prepare now, monitor for hatching and report locust activity early to support forecasting and management decisions.
Surveillance & Control
September surveillance has detected newly hatched locusts, confirming that spring hatching is now underway.
Landholders and public land managers are responsible for managing locusts on their land as part of a shared response.
Control is most effective about two weeks after hatching, when hoppers are 8-12mm long, cannot fly and are beginning to form bands.
Use only approved insecticides and follow all label and legal requirements. Consider potential impacts on waterways, wildlife, neighbouring properties, cultural heritage and Country before undertaking control.
Agriculture Victoria is undertaking surveillance to confirm the locations of egg begs where earlier egg laying activity was recorded.
Surveillance is focusing on 7 priority local government areas of Mildura, Swan Hill, Gannawarra, Buloke, West Wimmera, Yarriambiack, Hindmarsh.
Further Information
Report locust activity to the Agriculture Victoria - Customer Service Centre via phone #136 186.
For information on the latest locust situation and appropriate chemical use, please visit the
Agriculture Victoria - Locusts website
.
For further plague locust information, please view -
News Page: Prepare for Locust Hatching in Spring
Related Information
Locust Chemical Use - Agriculture Victoria website
Agriculture Victoria - Locusts website
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