Crickets

Latin: Order Orthoptera

Dark and moist places in or around the house.

What are Crickets?

House Crickets are the common name for these chirping insects that enter the house. They seem to survive indefinitely once introduced to a hospitable atmosphere.

First introduced from Europe, they are present across the United States. Commonly identified by noise at night, they make a loud chirping noise when the males rub together their front wings to attract females.

How do I identify Crickets?

Crickets are generally a light yellow-brown color and have three dark bands on their heads. They have a thread like antennae that is longer than its body. As nocturnal animals they hide in dark and warm places during the day. When attracted to light they can be found resting on vertical surfaces like walls, light posts or fences. In cold weather they seek shelter in houses and exterior building because of the warmth and shelter it provides.

Field Crickets are brown or black while Ground Crickets are just brown. They measure between 16 to 22 mm in length. A field cricket can be larger than 2.5 centimeters while ground crickets are much smaller. They hold their wings flat against their body covering up to half their abdomen. Many have large jumping hind legs for mobility.

Crickets are drawn to moist and warm structures. They feed on plants or other insects dead or alive. Inside they may eat fabric clothes or carpets. You may find agricultural damage or see these insects, but most commonly you will hear them at night.

How do I get rid of Crickets?

Crickets do not pose a health risk to humans. They can cause damage to property, especially those covered in fabric. Inside they are more a nuisance than a problem. Their chirping can disrupt sleep and they may eat at fabrics leaving small holes.

In agricultural communities they will feed on crops and seedlings at night, and can damage the production of a crop.

Vacuuming can help with the removal of crickets and their eggs. The best way to stop them from entering your household is to reduce areas of moisture in and around your home. In the garden, they prefer to stay in lawn soil, plant beds and woodpiles. They are also attracted to light so changing harsh white light to softer yellow light may reduce the abundance of crickets. Make sure you do not have any open gaps in your exterior to stop them from coming inside when attracted to light.