PINK GRASSHOPPER

The perfect ho

The Elusive Pink Grasshopper: Nature's Delicate Rarity

This creature said to be by experts that there is a one per cent chance of seeing one in a lifetime. This rare jumping machine is a genetic mutation that, in most cases, is not exactly helpful for staying alive! But this year, not only has my wife exceeded the one per cent rule by spotting it twice, but she also managed to show our daughters and me it! The photograph above is the result of the second encounter.

Because the garden is in a built-up area, there are only a few birds. This and a combination of colours in our wild front garden that we have planted for its colour and species to encourage wildlife. Because of its coloration, these two factors have produced a safe haven for this fantastic insect with an extremely short life expectancy.

Experts have said that they do not live long because of their bright colour and that it's rare to see one in your lifetime. But with warmer weather and a change in seasons. And remembering conservation efforts and the change in farming with more organic areas, there is more than a likely chance that these little beauties will be on the rise.

So, How can we help?

• KILL ALL CATS.

• POISON BIRDS. 

• STOP DRIVING. 

• WALK EVERYWHERE. 

• GO BACK TO PRE-1940’s FARMING.

Not quite these extreme measures! But jokes aside, it is simple to look after what we have. Every garden can have a space to encourage wildlife, flowers, and long grass; a bit of consideration goes a long way.

Or if you are stuck for ideas and want to learn and do more, keep an eye out on Outdoor Man and the family as we are on the case.

#SETTHEEXAMPLE

The pink 1% to see Grasshopper