A rare pink robust grasshopper has leapt into the amazed view of Department of Conservation rangers and their cameras near Lake Tekapo.
Ranger Jen Schori said she “couldn’t believe her eyes” on viewing the elusive creature – New Zealand’s largest lowland grasshopper.
“I’ve been studying these amazing creatures for years. They are usually grey or brown coloured like river stones. I’d heard rumours about a pink one but never seen one myself. It was so exciting.”
“Pink grasshoppers are exceptionally rare. It’s likely caused by a genetic mutation called erythrism, which results in an overproduction of red pigment”, Schori said of the grasshopper’s unique colouring.
The Department of Conservation said the “exceptionally” rare colour is caused by a genetic mutation. (Source: 1News)
The grasshopper was classed as nationally endangered, its fetching colour unfortunately making it stand out to predators against its typically brown and grey environment of braided riverlands.
A first-of-its-kind predator exclusion fence was established specifically for grasshoppers in the Mackenzie Basin in 2018.
This sighting however, took place outside the fence’s perimeter, leading Schori to say the pink grasshopper “will have to fend for herself”.
“She has certainly become a bit of a celebrity in our office,” joked Schori.
“I’m just so happy I got to see one after all these years. Getting out naturing in this part of the world is really special,” she added.
