Ministry statement on locust invasion

Following widespread public discussion regarding claims that locust swarms have been spotted in Istanbul and nearby provinces in recent days, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry has issued an updated statement on the matter. Based on examinations and observations, it was reported that no locust density or invasion capable of damaging agricultural products has been encountered in the Marmara Region, particularly in Istanbul and Tekirdağ.

In the Ministry's statement, it was noted that all locust species seen in the images circulating on social media are native to Turkey and belong to local populations. Furthermore, it was emphasized that "there has been no influx of locust swarms from the Balkans, Africa, or other regions."

During the investigations, it was revealed that the locust species identified in Istanbul is different from the species that cause damage to agricultural areas. Experts stated that the observed white-faced bush cricket (Decticus albifrons) actually contributes to the biological balance by feeding on insects in its natural habitat.

The Ministry's statement included the following information: "Many locust species live naturally in Turkey. Especially with the warming of the weather, periodic increases in the population of some species may be observed. These locusts can sometimes be carried to residential areas by the wind or be noticed more frequently by citizens during the summer months due to their tendency to move toward light. However, this is not a situation that indicates an invasion and is a natural process."

The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry reminded that locust species and their populations are regularly monitored by expert teams working in all 81 provinces as part of the Plant Health Control Program. It was stated that inspections in the region have been further intensified following recent reports in Istanbul and Tekirdağ.

The Ministry shared the following statement with the public: "When species that could pose a threat to agricultural production reach the economic injury level, necessary interventions are carried out without delay. At this moment, there is no situation that requires emergency control measures within this scope."