Black grasshoppers can bite, but they do not possess the mouthparts to deliver a venomous or disease-transmitting bite like a mosquito or tick. Any contact with human skin feels more like a pinch or a brief, superficial chew. This action is usually defensive or exploratory, often occurring when the insect mistakes skin for vegetation. Black grasshoppers are not inherently dangerous, and contact with them is rarely a cause for concern.
Understanding Grasshopper Mouthparts
Grasshoppers, including those of a dark coloration, are characterized by having mandibulate mouthparts, which are designed for chewing and grinding plant material. These mandibles are a pair of highly sclerotized jaws that move laterally to cut and crush tough plant fibers. The mouthparts are adapted for their herbivorous diet, not for piercing skin or sucking blood.
The sensation of a “bite” occurs when a grasshopper uses these strong mandibles against human skin, often when it is being held or feels trapped. This action is distinct from the piercing mouthparts of blood-feeding insects. For a grasshopper, the contact is merely a defensive snap or an attempt to sample the texture of the skin, resulting in a minor, temporary pinch.
Common Species of Black Grasshoppers
The perception of a “black grasshopper” often stems from encounters with a few large, dark-colored species. One such insect is the Eastern Lubber Grasshopper (Romalea microptera), which, while typically yellow and black, has a predominantly black color form found in areas like northern Florida and along the Gulf Coast. The nymphs of this species are also almost entirely black with distinctive yellow or red stripes.
Another common source of this concern is the Mormon Cricket (Anabrus simplex), a large, flightless insect that is often black and mistaken for a grasshopper, though it is technically a shield-backed katydid. This species is native to the Western United States and is known for its large swarms. Both the Lubber and the Mormon Cricket are noticed for their imposing size.
Safety and Management of Interaction
Black grasshoppers are not venomous and do not carry diseases transmissible to humans. If a grasshopper pinches the skin, the sensation is minor and generally causes no injury or lasting effect. The insect may also use its spiny hind legs to kick defensively, which can cause a slight irritation but is not a true bite.
If contact occurs, the area of the pinch should be thoroughly cleaned with mild soap and water to prevent any minor irritation. Since grasshoppers do not inject toxins, medical attention is typically unnecessary unless a person exhibits symptoms of a rare allergic reaction to insect contact. The best safety guideline is to simply avoid handling the insects to prevent their defensive reactions.