Leprus intermedius

Saussure's Blue-winged Grasshopper

Family: Acrididae · Class: Insecta · Order: Orthoptera

Saussure's Blue-winged Grasshopper (Leprus intermedius) is a medium-sized band-winged grasshopper in the family Acrididae, subfamily Oedipodinae. Adults typically measure approximately 13 mm in length, with females generally larger than males (BugGuide). The species displays sexual dimorphism in coloration and size, with males typically smaller and more distinctly marked than females. The common name derives from the characteristic blue coloration of the hindwings, which becomes visible during flight or when the wings are spread. This species occurs in western North America, with documented populations in California. Observations have been recorded from Santa Cruz Island in Channel Islands County and San Luis Obispo County, indicating a coastal distribution pattern (BugGuide). The species appears to have a limited range within California, though comprehensive survey data for the state's grasshopper fauna remains incomplete. Leprus intermedius inhabits diverse habitat types, including chaparral, yucca scrubland, and rocky areas. Documented observations include individuals found on rocky roads through yucca and chaparral habitat in San Luis Obispo County (BugGuide). The species appears to favor open, sunny locations with rocky or gravelly substrates, similar to habitat preferences observed in related Leprus species. Elevation ranges and specific microhabitat requirements have not been thoroughly documented in the scientific literature. The species belongs to the tribe Hippiscini within the band-winged grasshoppers, a group known for their conspicuous hindwing coloration and flight displays. Like other Leprus species, L. intermedius likely exhibits seasonal activity patterns with adults most commonly observed during spring and early summer months. Based on observations from related species in the genus, individuals may be capable of long-distance movement and are occasionally attracted to artificial lights (BugGuide). Specific information regarding diet, reproduction, and detailed life cycle characteristics has not been extensively studied or published. No federal or state conservation status has been assigned to Saussure's Blue-winged Grasshopper. The species does not appear on current endangered species lists or species of special concern designations. However, like many grasshopper species with apparently limited distributions, L. intermedius may face threats from habitat loss due to development, agricultural conversion, and fire management practices that alter natural vegetation communities. The species' occurrence on Santa Cruz Island suggests some populations exist within protected areas of the Channel Islands National Park system. Taxonomic research and systematic surveys of California's orthopteran fauna remain incomplete, particularly for less conspicuous species like L. intermedius. The limited number of documented observations suggests either genuine rarity or insufficient survey effort. Additional field research is needed to determine the species' true distribution, population status, and ecological requirements. Citizen science contributions through platforms like iNaturalist and BugGuide continue to provide valuable occurrence data for this and other understudied grasshopper species in California.

Data from The California Species Project — 14,000+ California species with verified data from CNPS, CDFW, USFWS, and more.