This update was published the 02 February 2012
Related countries: Algeria Iran Libya Niger Pakistan Saudi Arabia Sudan

Situation remains calm but close monitoring is required in Libya, Algeria and Niger During January, small-scale breeding occurred in southwest Libya and in adjacent areas of southeast Algeria. In Libya, hoppers were becoming gregarious and forming several small patches in three places northwest of Ghat. In Algeria, hopper and adult densities were increasing west of Djanet. Ground teams treated 85 ha in Algeria while in Libya all attempts were being made to organize survey and control operations. In Niger, small-scale breeding occurred in the eastern Air Mountains and on the western side of the Ténéré Desert where low numbers of hoppers and adults are currently present. Close monitoring is required in all three countries, especially if more rains fall that would allow further breeding, concentration and grouping. In the winter breeding area along both sides of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, locust numbers continue to remain unusually low due to poor rains and dry vegetation. Only a few adults have been reported in the Tokar Delta and southern plains in Sudan, and near Qunfidah in Saudi Arabia. Further breeding is unlikely unless more rain falls. In the spring breeding areas of SW Asia, only a few adults were seen on the coast in western Pakistan near Uthal. Vegetation is starting to become green in a few places on the coast in southeast Iran. More rain is required before breeding conditions become favourable. No significant developments are likely during February.