Black-winged Grasshopper

Only likely to be confused with Trimerotropis latifasciata (see comments under that species ). The reddish abdomen and underside, and the broad black band that nearly dominates the otherwise pale wings are distinctive features. Resembles Spharagemon equale rather closely with wings folded, but it is a bit more slender, the top of the pronotum is less roof-like and more flat, the median ridge on the pronotum is lower, and the hind wing coloration is quite different. Like T. latifasciata and several Spharagemon species, this one has an attractive collared form in which the rear half of the pronotum, face and sides of head, and bands across legs can be pale pinkish, tan, or nearly white. One of the most striking species of grasshoppers in North America, often very abundant, and yet for some reason not often noticed, perhaps because people tend not to frequent its prefered dusty habitats. It sometimes turns up on athletic fields and vacant lots in towns, perhaps because they resemble it's habitat, and because it is often attracted to bright lights. It has a tendency to stand tall and display it's reddish abdomen, a behavior that is apparently not studied yet. It is an alert, highly active species, rather difficult to catch and to photograph. It is noisy in flight, producing a loud harsh interrupted buzzing (pulse buzz). Apparently closely related to T. latifasciata , and also apparently to Spharagemon .