Brown topped Hopper? - BugGuide.Net

My guess

...would be something in the genus Eremopedes. But, as Eric points out, even genus from a photo can be tough in your part of the world. If you see adults, try to get a closeup of the tip of the abdomen.

… James Miskelly, 5 April, 2009 - 9:57am

If you see adults

Thanks James, how does one know an adult from a nymph Kadydid?

… Robert L. Pearson, 5 April, 2009 - 4:29pm

looks like nobody answered

To tell nymphs from adults is very difficult in species where the wings are missing (nearly all Shield-backs have at least tiny wings, at least in males). When wings are present, the front wings of adults (whether small are fully developed) are fully formed to the extent that the veins and cross veins are clearly developed, and a little practice makes it possible to tell these from the "wing pads" of a developing nymph. Ignoring the wings, the bodies are usually harder in adults, quite soft in nymphs, and again, a little practice makes it moderately easy (usually) to tell a nymph from adult. Of course it's more difficult in photos than in real life. If the insect is male, and stridulating (making clicking or buzzing sounds), it is an adult (with the exception that some may click their mandibles, and nymphs may be able to do this too).

… David J. Ferguson, 1 November, 2009 - 9:41pm

Aging

Thanks David for the info.

… Robert L. Pearson, 2 November, 2009 - 10:05am

Katydid nymph.

Pretty sure it is a nymph, but a shield-backed katydid in any event. The southwest has loads of genera and species, and probably undescribed species as well.

… Eric R. Eaton, 4 April, 2009 - 10:11pm

a shield-backed katydid

Thanks a lot Eric. Never know what i'll find next!

… Robert L. Pearson, 5 April, 2009 - 12:13am