Lubber Grasshopper (Georgia Thumper): Control Options for Large, Slow Pests

Eastern lubber grasshoppers (Romalea microptera) are large, flightless, and slow. They rarely reach damaging numbers, but if they do, treat early while nymphs are small.

Chemical Control

Cyfluthrin, malathion, or acephate (Orthene®) applied to host plants (especially daylilies) works well. Follow labels.

Non-Chemical Options

• Hand-pick with net and bag—easy due to slow movement.
• Pay neighborhood kids per insect.
• Feed to opossums (they vomit violently after eating lubbers—entertaining but not recommended).

Expert Perspective

UGA entomologist Gretchen Pettis notes they're not major pests: low numbers, low food consumption. "Georgia is for Lubbers!" she quips.

Cautions

They hiss and secrete irritating foam when handled; "tobacco spit" can stain clothes.

Monitor and act only if damage is unacceptable.