Essential Cricket Information

Crickets are common household invaders known for their distinctive chirping sounds, especially at night. While generally harmless, some species can damage fabrics, paper products, and even crops. Understanding the different types of crickets can help in identifying infestations and choosing the right treatment approach. The most common types include:

1. House Crickets

Light yellowish-brown with three dark bands on their heads, house crickets are often found indoors. They are attracted to warmth and light, and can survive inside homes, especially in kitchens, basements, and near heating systems.

2. Field Crickets

Larger and darker than house crickets, field crickets are typically black or dark brown. They usually live outdoors but may wander inside, especially during hot or dry weather. They can damage plants, fabrics, and paper.

3. Camel Crickets (Cave Crickets)

These crickets have a humped back and long legs, giving them a spider-like appearance. They are silent (don’t chirp) and thrive in damp, dark areas like crawl spaces and basements. Though not harmful, their presence can be unsettling.

4. Mole Crickets

Uncommon indoors, mole crickets live underground and are more often a lawn or garden pest. They have large, spade-like forelimbs for digging and can cause extensive turf damage.