AUSTRALIAN plague locust numbers are expected to increase across the Mallee in coming weeks.
Agriculture Victoria says there has been medium to high densities of locust hatchlings in Victoria’s north-west and southern NSW Riverina districts with locust numbers likely to increase moderately in the Loddon-Mallee region from overwintering eggs which may result in some localised bands.
A hatching from overwintering eggs was confirmed in the Swan Hill district in early October where adult aggregations were first reported in April.
There is a moderate risk of widespread infestation developing in early summer and a moderate probability of migration and/or dispersal in early summer.
There is only a low to moderate likelihood of numbers increasing in the Wimmera due to high density hatching from overwintering eggs and a low probability of any significant migrations during early summer.
Australian plague locust is a native Australian insect that, if left unmanaged, can pose a serious threat to pastures, crops and horticulture.
Limited surveys were able to be conducted in September and early October due to the La Niña weather event resulting in above average rainfall over much of inland eastern Australia.
Although the weather was similar to the 2010-2011 season, which saw plague levels of locusts, there is no plague predicted for this season.
Landholders are responsible for reporting and managing locusts on their land, while Agriculture Victoria will continue to undertake surveillance, and liaise with the Australian Plague Locust Commission, to help landholders make decisions about locust management activities.
