Desert Locust Bulletin 557: Update on Outbreaks and Breeding Forecasts for March 2025

Desert Locust outbreaks persisted in northern Sudan and the southern Sahara as of February 2025, with significant activity in various regions. Spring breeding is anticipated to commence, with increased numbers expected in Algeria and Libya, necessitating ongoing control operations.

In February 2025, Desert Locust outbreaks persisted notably in northern Sudan and the southern Sahara. Although locust populations diminished along the Red Sea coast from Eritrea to Egypt during winter, adult groups and swarms remained active in the Nile Valley of northern Sudan and southern Egypt. Additionally, new hopper groups and bands emerged along Saudi Arabia’s northern coast, while copulating adult groups and early instar hoppers increased in Algeria, with some adults moving southeast.

Furthermore, persistent locust groups were noted in Niger, and some small swarms were observed in northern Chad, while isolated adults were present in Morocco. Control operations against the locusts continued but saw a decline in coverage compared to January, with an area of 25,058 hectares treated in February versus 41,877 hectares in January.

Looking forward, spring breeding is anticipated to begin with adult groups and swarms primarily concentrated near irrigated crops in northern Sudan and southern Egypt. In Saudi Arabia, locust movements from the Red Sea coast into the interior will facilitate their spring generation. An increase in locust numbers is expected across Algeria and Libya throughout March and April due to laying and hatching activities, while some populations may persist in northern Niger and Chad or migrate northward. Moreover, small-scale breeding is recognized in Morocco, necessitating continued control measures in these regions.

The Desert Locust situation remains critical in northern Sudan and the southern Sahara. Outbreaks are ongoing, with breeding expected to rise significantly in the coming months. The need for control operations is evident, particularly as locust numbers rise in Algeria and Libya, and new breeding emerges in Morocco. Monitoring efforts by FAO/DLIS will be essential to manage this situation effectively and provide timely updates.

Original Source: reliefweb.int