Circotettix carlinianus
(Thomas, 1870)
Carlinian Snapper, Snapper Grasshopper
Circotettix carlinianus, commonly known as the carlinian snapper or snapper , is a band-winged grasshopper in the Acrididae. It is characterized by its noisy and dark or black hindwings. The is more frequently heard than seen due to its secretive nature. It occurs throughout grassland in Wyoming and broader North America.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Circotettix carlinianus: //ˌsɜrkoʊˈtɛtɪks ˌkɑrlɪniˈeɪnəs//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from similar band-winged grasshoppers by its dark or black hindwings and characteristic snapping sound produced during . The is more often heard than observed, making auditory detection a key identification cue. Closely related Circotettix rabula (wrangler ) occurs in similar but may differ in wing coloration and distribution patterns.
Images
Habitat
Prefers dry areas of bare ground or eroded soil within grassland . Occurs throughout Wyoming's grasslands and broader North American prairie .
Distribution
North America, with documented presence in Wyoming, Colorado, and surrounding grassland regions. Distribution records indicate presence in Colorado specifically.
Seasonality
overwinter in soil and hatch in late May or June. present from mid-July through September.
Diet
Thought to be a mixed feeder on forbs and grasses, though specific dietary studies are limited.
Life Cycle
stage overwinters in soil. Nymphs emerge late May to June, developing through instar stages. appear mid-July and persist through September. Specific details on number of instars and development duration not documented.
Behavior
Produces loud snapping sounds during , making it more frequently heard than seen. Secretive habits contribute to low observability despite presence in suitable .
Ecological Role
Herbivore in grassland . Never abundant enough to cause measurable damage to rangelands. Serves as prey for insectivorous birds and other .
Human Relevance
Not considered an economically significant pest. No documented damage to crops or rangelands despite mixed feeding habits.
Similar Taxa
- Circotettix rabulaBoth are Circotettix with band-winged and occur in western grasslands; C. rabula known as wrangler and may differ in wing pattern specifics
More Details
Vocalization
The 'snapper' refers to the audible snapping sound produced during , a characteristic feature of this that aids in detection when visual observation is difficult.