Locust invasion covers Dnipropetrovsk region: threat to harvest, clouds of insects and warning to farmers

A massive locust invasion has been recorded in the Dnipropetrovsk region, approaching from the dried-up Kakhovka reservoir. The insects have already hit fields in Kherson, Zaporizhia, Odessa and Vinnytsia regions. Due to the heat and drought, the locusts are rapidly multiplying, attacking sunflower crops and can destroy up to 100% of the harvest.

The locust invasion, which has been actively recorded in the southern regions of Ukraine in recent weeks, has reached the Dnipropetrovsk region. According to experts, the density of insects in the area reaches 40–80 individuals per square meter , which is many times higher than the economic threshold for damage .

Dnipropetrovsk region is a new epicenter of the threat:

• The first clouds of locusts appeared in areas close to the dried bottom of the Kakhovka reservoir.
• Sunflower crops are the most affected, especially in uncultivated areas, roadsides, and pastures.
• Insects are most active in the morning and evening, when they seek coolness and moisture.
• Farmers are urgently urged to inspect their fields and be prepared to treat with protective agents (insecticides), warning beekeepers and the public in advance.

“This is a real invasion. In one of the communities, locusts have invaded everything: from roadsides to crops. This is the first time in many years that there have been such a number,” says an agrarian from Kryvyi Rih.

General situation in other regions

Zaporizhzhia region:

• The Kushugum community was the most affected. The locusts affected fields, plantations, and even reached the Zaporizhia Botanical Garden, where protective measures are already being taken.
• Garden workers use environmentally friendly products to preserve the flora and not harm the animals.

Kherson region:

• Locusts have damaged sunflower fields in several areas.
• Insects move from reed areas towards crops.

Odesa region:

• In the city and in the Teplytsk community, local residents notice insects even in the windows of houses.
• The locusts have already moved from rapeseed and wheat fields to sunflower fields , causing panic among farmers.

“I don’t understand where they came from. We haven’t seen such an invasion since the 2000s,” says a farmer from the Odessa region.

Reasons for spread:

• Climatic conditions: drought, heat, and lack of tillage amid the war.
• The dried-up Kakhovka reservoir has become a breeding ground for locusts.
• Insects are capable of flying tens of kilometers, especially during windy weather.

Calls and actions:

• Farmers are advised to monitor fields, especially vulnerable crops.
• If the damage threshold is exceeded, use insecticides.
• Local authorities are urged to coordinate with emergency services to minimize damage.

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