Managing locusts: a guide for producers in Queensland

Recent wet weather has created ideal breeding conditions for locusts across Queensland, primarily in the Central and South-West regions.

These native insects can cause widespread damage to pastures and crops, and have the potential to impact agricultural production, particularly for graziers who rely on healthy pastures and forage crops to sustain their livestock.

Locust swarms have been reported during winter in the Muttaburra, Corfield and Longreach areas as well as Prairie and Hughenden in the north. This follows on from autumn reports around Alpha. Heading into spring, the Department of Primary Industries is closely watching the situation. We’re asking landholders to remain vigilant and proactive in managing locust populations. Early detection and effective control of locusts is the best way to protect our agricultural industries.

Locust management: A shared responsibility

Locusts are native to Queensland and are not classified as prohibited or restricted invasive animals under the Biosecurity Act 2014. However, their potential to devastate pastures and crops makes them a serious concern.

Under the Biosecurity Act 2014, locust management in Queensland is a shared responsibility. We encourage landholders to understand their General Biosecurity Obligation (GBO) to prevent or minimise the impact of locusts on your property and the broader community. This means taking proactive steps to monitor, report, and control locust activity.

The three economically significant species in Queensland are:

1. Australian Plague Locust (Chortoicetes terminifera): The most serious pest species, capable of causing significant economic damage if their population booms following favourable seasons.
2. Migratory Locust (Locusta migratoria): Another damaging species, particularly in cropping and grazing areas.
3. Spur-throated Locust (Austracris guttulosa): While less likely to form dense nymph bands or summer swarms, they can still impact crops and pastures.

Adult locusts are highly mobile, capable of flying hundreds of kilometres to attack crops far from their hatching grounds. This mobility, combined with their rapid breeding cycles, makes them a formidable pest that requires coordinated management efforts.

Check out our Managing Locusts in Queensland guide for more information.

Preventative control: The key to success

Preventative control is widely recognised as the most effective method for preventing and managing locust outbreaks. This involves routine monitoring of locust activity and early intervention to prevent populations from reaching damaging levels.

The nymph stage is the most effective time for control, particularly for Australian plague locusts and migratory locusts. Nymphs often form dense bands, making them easier to target with chemical treatments. Check out our guide on how to identify nymphs.

While adult locusts are more challenging to control due to their mobility, monitoring their movements can help predict potential outbreaks.

Reporting locust activity

Here are some practical steps to help us monitor the situation:

• Regular inspections: Monitor your property for signs of locust activity and treat any nymphs found. Unusually high bird activity may indicate that nymphs or locusts are present in your paddocks.
• Collaborate with neighbours: Work with neighbouring landholders to coordinate monitoring and control efforts.
• Report detections: If you detect large numbers of locusts or nymph bands on your property, it’s essential to report this activity to the DPI by calling 13 25 23, sending an email to locustreports@dpi.qld.gov.au or reporting online at Report a biosecurity pest or disease form on the DPI website. Early reporting allows for coordinated control efforts, reducing the risk of widespread damage.

Chemical control: Best practices

Chemical control is a common method for managing locust populations. Whether using ground or aerial applications, it’s essential to follow best practices to ensure effective and safe treatment.

1. Choose registered chemicals: Always use chemicals registered for locust control and follow the label instructions carefully.
2. Calibrate equipment: Ensure your spray equipment is properly calibrated to deliver the correct dosage.
3. Adhere to withholding periods: After chemical treatment, strictly observe withholding periods to ensure the safety of livestock and crops. These chemicals can pose a risk of residue contamination in livestock if not managed correctly.
4. Consult professionals: For aerial applications, work with a licensed operator to discuss appropriate chemicals and risk management strategies.

Visit farmbiosecurity.com.au or biosecurity.qld.gov.au for more information on biosecurity practices.

Next steps

While locust control is primarily the responsibility of landholders, government and industry bodies play a vital role in supporting these efforts.

We will conduct targeted surveillance to monitor locust activity and provides resources to assist landholders in meeting their GBO.

Australian Plague Locust Commission (APLC) will implement control measures when locust numbers threaten two or more states or territories, ensuring a coordinated national response.

Being aware of the ideal breeding conditions for locusts and monitoring your property for signs is the best way to prevent an outbreak.

1. Monitor your property: Promptly treat any nymphs you discover, and report large numbers to DPI.
2. Develop a plan: Create a locust management plan that outlines monitoring, reporting, and control strategies for your property.
3. Stay informed: Stay in touch with your local Extension Officer and neighbouring landholders to facilitate coordinated efforts.

Locust management is a shared responsibility that requires vigilance, fast action and cooperation. By monitoring locust activity, reporting outbreaks, and promptly implementing effective control measures, graziers can minimise the impact of these pests on their properties and the broader agricultural industry.

For more information on locust management and biosecurity practices, visit dpi.qld.gov.au, farmbiosecurity.com.au, or contact the Department of Primary Industries on 13 25 23.