BLACK FIELD CRICKETS ACTIVE IN SOUTH-WEST VICTORIA

Agriculture Victoria is urging growers in the state’s south west to monitor black field crickets, as dry and warm autumn conditions continue to support activity across the region.

The pest is known to damage emerging pasture and crops, reducing feed availability for livestock and impacting potential yields.

Black field crickets typically hatch in spring and summer, with females laying large numbers of eggs into moist soil following autumn rainfall.

They are most active at night and shelter in cracked or stony ground during the day, making early detection important.

Producers are being advised to monitor using hessian or cloth traps placed across paddocks, with control recommended where numbers exceed threshold levels.

Agriculture Victoria says baiting is most effective as crickets reach maturity and begin developing wings, with timing critical to reducing populations before further egg laying occurs.

Growers are encouraged to seek advice from local agronomists when planning control strategies.