Grasshopper - Arphia

The choices are limited by location, and I would have to say it is probably Arphia conspersa, but kind'a late in the season. Where I know the species, the head is generally not so big and smooth though. It actually looks a lot like A. pecos, which fits the date better, but I am not aware that it occurs as far east as Bexar County (maybe it does?). Wings are a real help in this genus, because not only is the color useful, but the shape of the dark band and spur can be diagnostic.

… David J. Ferguson, 29 August, 2007 - 6:13pm

Arphia

This one is Arphia. He didn't know which species

… Will Chatfield-Taylor, 20 July, 2007 - 10:55pm

Band-winged grasshopper.

Might be able to ID to genus and species eventually, but do you happen to know the color of the hindwings (visible when the insect flies)?

… Eric R. Eaton, 19 July, 2007 - 1:37pm

Hi Eric, Unfortunately I did

Hi Eric,
Unfortunately I didn't note that. This is where my ignorance becomes apparent because I don't even know what to check with grasshopper observation/identification. To me any information is helpful. All the grasshoppers in this series are common in the area, so I'll encounter them again this summer some time.
Thanks for all your help though.
Stephen

… Stephen, 19 July, 2007 - 3:09pm

You're welcome.

You do magnificent images! Generally speaking, it helps to get a lateral (profile) shot of any grasshopper, which you are doing very nicely. the position and number of notches in the top of the thorax helps eliminate some genera for identification. The color of the hind tibia ("shin") also helps greatly, but the 'hoppers usually hide them under the femur, so there is not much you can do there:-) Lastly, the color of the hindwings can be very helpful. Keep up the great work!

… Eric R. Eaton, 19 July, 2007 - 3:33pm

Useful tips

Hi Eric,
Thanks for the tips - the next time I go on a grasshopper hunt I'll make sure to note these things down. Meanwhile, back to the Odonata ... LOL
Stephen

… Stephen, 20 July, 2007 - 10:53am