Species Amphitornus coloradus - Striped Slant-face Grasshopper

The rich blue hind tibiae separate it from similar species in the genera Eritettix & Opeia. Also, the pale stripe that is often seen down the middle of the back only rarely occurs in those species. In Opeia the top of the sides of the pronotum are more strictly parallel, and in Eritettix they are usually pinched in the middle more. In any given region, Amphitornus coloradus averages larger.

Syrbula montezuma may look somewhat similar, but is considerably more slender with blackish hind wings. Other Syrbula are larger with different pattern, and more slender, sides of pronotum less parallel, hind tibiae not blue.

Amblytropidia are also perhaps related and appear similar, but are a bit more stocky, are plainer looking with brownish (not blue) hind tibiae, and the fastigium is more smooth and rounded.

A very common and widespread species found in grasslands of Western North America from southern Canada well into Mexico and east to the Midwestern United States. Found in all states west from Minnesota, Illinois, and Louisiana (rare near its eastern limits).

Grasslands

adults June or July, with some living until first hard freezing.

Overwinters as eggs laid in soil.