As you walk along trails next to open, sunny fields of grass, you are likely going to trigger a few grasshoppers to jump. They are well camouflaged, and they usually see you before you see them. The recent rains have caused new, tender grass shoots to emerge, and the grasshoppers can be seen nibbling off the tips. Along the trails I see the females laying eggs - I imagine the recent moisture helped soften or loosen the soil to make it easier for her. You can see her in the photos extending her abdomen into the ground to deposit her eggs.
