By Natalie Gallenti
Last week residents reported swarms of adult flying locusts in Sunshine West, Deer Park and Hillside, however not in plague proportions like other parts of the state.
To qualify as a swarm, there must be between four to 10 insects per square metre of air space.
The pesky insects were sighted in Taylors Hill only a few weeks ago. There have been more than 60 sightings across Brimbank, Melton, Maribyrnong, Wyndham and Hobsons Bay reported by residents to the Department of Primary Industries (DPI), but so far Sunshine has been the worst hit in the West.
State Locust Director Rob Walker said there had not been any significant sightings in Brimbank and neighbouring municipalities and locusts were unlikely to cause any damage to properties in the area. However, he said concerned residents should cover their garden with shade cloth, any colour but green.
“The chemicals that can be used are very limited,” Mr Walker said.
“Residents should speak to their local farm supplies specialists and see what they can use in an urban area.”
Brimbank Council General Manager Environment and Infrastructure Paul Younis said the council had not received any specific information from the Department of Primary Industry (DPI) about Brimbank being at risk of a locust outbreak.
He said residents should contact the DPI or visit the website for up-to-date information on how to prepare for locust outbreaks, how to protect gardens, make reports of sightings or other related information.
