than published references might imply. I'd bet that M. punctulatus will also use alternate sites on occasion. I've seen species well known to lay in the ground use wood as well. In fact M. differentialis routinely uses existing cracks and holes in my front steps (I don't think they are further damaging the steps any?).

A number of species found in open rangeland, that normally lay in the ground, will lay in old cow pies.

I don't know what is normal for M. ponderosus, but it lives in a lot of areas where rocks are sort of difficult to come by, so you may be correct. I suspect that it will use varied substrates, but it sounds like it really likes the wood where you are.

M. ponderosus is reported to lay its eggs in holes in rocks. My picture is from an area that has no rocks, so perhaps the holes in tree trunks were the next best thing.

which is probably closely related to M. punctulatus, but less likely to be seen dwelling up in the trees.

Moved from Pine Tree Spur-throat Grasshopper.

Moved from ID Request.