What Are Treehoppers?

These bugs look like something from a Dr. Seuss Book, but they're real - and they're probably in your yard

Treehoppers are Small and Varied

Treehoppers are very small, ranging from a few millimeters to a few centimeters in size. They come in all kinds of colors and body types. Each species has it's own look, but they all have a version of an enlarged pronotum- an plate on their back that sticks up, often in a triangular shape.

Even though the names are similar, grasshoppers and treehoppers are not closely related; treehoppers are, however, related to froghoppers, leafhoppers, and planthoppers. Treehoppers are also related to cicadas. And not surprisingly, treehoppers can jump. In fact, they are among the best animal jumpers - jumping over half a foot vertically and more than a foot horizontally. Given their size, that's an enormous leap!

Treehoppers Protect Their Young

Unlike most insects, the female treehoppers actually protect their eggs. Once she lays the eggs, usually inside the stem of a plant, the mom will stay and sit on her eggs to keep them safe from predators. Some mothers will actually wave their limbs or kick at an attacker to save her eggs. Once the eggs are ready to hatch, she will move a short distance away to prepare a feeding area for the nymphs. After her kids are feeding, she'll stay nearby in case of predators. Treehoppers communicate through vibration, so she stays within range to hear her children tell her if they spot danger.

Treehoppers Feed Similarly To Mosquitoes

Treehoppers have a similar mouthpiece to mosquitoes. Instead of using it to puncture skin and suck blood, treehoppers use their mouthpieces to puncture plant stems and drink the plant juices. They have two sharp tubes- one used to inject saliva to keep the hole open, and one used for sucking. Unlike mosquitoes, who move on quickly from each feeding spot, treehoppers will stay in one place for much longer- a month maybe. They feed day and night and don't need to move once they find a good location.

Treehoppers Aren't Harmful

Treehoppers, while feeding on plants, are rarely harmful to gardens unless in large numbers. They also don't present a risk to humans or pets, as they don't bite or sting. Generally, you can let them be.

If you do end up with an infestation that is causing harm to your vegetation, you can squash them or use contact pesticides. A professional pest control company can help if necessary.

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For even more interesting Virginia insects, check out our pest library