A very rare pink grasshopper has been spotted near Lake Takapō during an annual insect survey in the Mackenzie Basin. The surprising discovery was made by Department of Conservation (DOC) ranger Jen Schori, who had never seen one in all her years of study.
The bright pink insect is a female robust grasshopper, New Zealand’s largest lowland grasshopper species. Normally, these grasshoppers are grey or brown to blend in with the river stones where they live. Experts believe the pink colour comes from a rare genetic condition called erythrism, which causes extra red pigment and less of the usual colours.
These grasshoppers are found only in the Mackenzie Basin and are nationally endangered. They are known for their strong jumps but clumsy landings, and their size.
The pink grasshopper is especially rare because her bright colour makes her more visible to predators. She was found outside a predator-protected area, meaning she has survived without extra help.
DoC hopes she might produce offspring, though pink grasshoppers are unlikely to become common.
