Locust Invasion on the Rise in Morocco
In a recent bulletin published by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) at the beginning of March 2026, there is an alarming report regarding the ongoing resurgence of migratory locusts in Morocco. The FAO has observed a notable increase in adult locust groups, which are now moving northward. Reproductive activity has resumed, with some groups even reaching the Canary Islands and Algeria. The FAO's findings indicate that locusts have also been spotted in Mauritania, while overall efforts to combat these pests have shown a decline. In February alone, approximately 34,564 hectares were treated, a significant reduction from the 47,358 hectares addressed in January.
Future Threats and Continued Monitoring
Despite the treatment efforts, the outlook remains concerning. The FAO warns that "groups of winged locusts and small swarms may continue to migrate north into Morocco and Algeria, where reproduction could lead to the formation of new groups of larvae and small bands." Within Morocco, there has been a documented increase in adult locust groups that have advanced further north, with significant reproductive activity reported at various sites, including areas north of Agadir. In the central region, isolated and scattered locusts are still present in Sudan, Egypt, and Eritrea. Given this situation, the FAO emphasizes the urgent need to continue monitoring and control operations to prevent further infestations from developing.
As reported by yabiladi.com.
