20.07.2026 15:50
Giant grasshoppers, reported to have arrived in the Marmara Region via the Balkans and entering homes in Istanbul's districts such as Silivri, Çatalca, and Arnavutköy, have caused panic among citizens. Experts commenting on these creatures, which instill fear with their size and strong structure, stated that this is not an 'invasion' and that the grasshoppers are attracted to artificial lights in homes.
Giant locusts, reportedly entering the Marmara Region via the Balkans, have caused panic in Istanbul. Seen on windows, balconies, and inside homes in many districts of the mega-city, these large locusts, sometimes claimed to reach sizes up to 25 centimeters, have unsettled citizens. While social media posts about an 'invasion' have snowballed, a statement from experts has emerged, offering reassurance but also containing critical warnings.
'NOT AN INVASION, A SOCIAL MEDIA PERCEPTION'
Dr. Ergün Bacak, a faculty member at Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa Forestry Vocational School, stated that the majority of these panic-inducing creatures are 'white-faced bush locusts' (Decticus albifrons albifrons). Noting that the species typically reaches a length of 5-6 centimeters under normal conditions, Bacak explained the magnitude of the perception with these words: 'Due to their large structure, long antennae, and powerful legs, they attract a lot of attention from people. However, this species is not a locust that invades. Perhaps only one or two individuals enter everyone's home. With the effect of social media, a perception is created as if there is a giant locust invasion; this is definitely not the case.'
WHY ARE THEY ENTERING OUR HOMES?
Dr. Bacak, emphasizing that these locusts should not be confused with desert locusts that damage agricultural areas, stated that these creatures benefit, rather than harm, the ecosystem. So, why do these locusts suddenly appear inside homes? Dr. Bacak summarizes the reason under two main headings:
- Urbanization Pressure: As natural and agricultural areas become intertwined with settlements, encounters between wildlife and humans have increased. Districts such as Silivri, Çatalca, and Arnavutköy, where posts are concentrated, are the clearest examples of this situation.
- Light Trap: This species of locust is active at night. Creatures that navigate by following the stars and moonlight in nature are deceived by artificial lights seeping through the windows of homes and enter inside. In other words, their goal is not to search for food, but simply to move towards the light.
CRITICAL WARNING: DO NOT GRAB WITH BARE HANDS!
Dr. Ergün Bacak, emphasizing that citizens should not panic and kill the animals, also gave a very important practical warning: 'Do not try to catch locusts with your bare hands. Although it is not a harmful or disease-carrying species, it may bite in self-defense if handled incorrectly. This may not cause a major problem for adults, but it can hurt children. The best thing to do is to catch a locust seen at home with the help of a jar or plastic container and release it into the nearest green space.'
INTENSITY WILL SUBSIDE IN A FEW WEEKS
Experts, stating that this intensity is a temporary period, say that some locust populations peak every 5-6 years and that this year likely coincides with such a cycle. It is predicted that the density of these creatures, which mature as temperatures rise, will decrease and return to normal within the next few weeks.