Schayers grasshopper surveys

Schayer’s grasshopper (Schayera baiulus) is currently the only Tasmanian grasshopper listed on the Tasmanian Threatened Species Protection Act 1995. The species is endemic to Tasmania and it appears to be very rare, with very few modern or historical reports, including no observations whatsoever (despite intensive searching) between 1841 and 1988.

With the scant recent records from the far NE and NW being relevant to some of our project areas, North Barker in recent years have undertaken targeted surveys for the species, accompanied by expert entomologist Dr Simon Grove – TMAG Curator of Invertebrates.

We start with stratified habitat modelling, noting however this is difficult for the species due to so few confirmed observations. Accordingly we then undertake ground checks to validate habitat modelling – then, within suitable habitat, the real (fun) search begins!

Our targeted grasshopper surveys are conducted on calm, warm, sunny days. Our team then undertake meandering transects with nets in hand. Specimens are collected for identification using the hand nets and stored in specimen jars while examined. Photographs are taken for verification and future reference, with captured individuals released at their collection site within minutes. In some cases early in the season when only nymphs are present to be captured, individuals will be grown on until they can be definitively identified as adults. Using this method we have recorded the species several times in NE Tasmania, providing valuable knowledge consolidating its historical and extant range, as well as providing critical information for avoidance and mitigation within our projects.