Crickets. They’re everywhere! With over nine-hundred unique species, they can be found on every continent except Antarctica. They’re highly adaptable and resilient and live in all kinds of habitats, from forest and meadows to caves and in the soil.
Some insects commonly thought of as “crickets” are not true crickets. Camel crickets…sometimes called spider or cave crickets…are among them. Unlike most species, they don’t have wings, consequently, they can’t fly. They can’t chirp, either! They can leap pretty far when frightened. In fact, their ability to startle other creatures is their most effective defense.
You may wonder how this insect acquired so many names. The term “camel cricket” refers to their humped back. Their long legs and antennae inspired some to call them “spider crickets.” Because they love damp, cool underground areas, others prefer the term “cave cricket.”
Call them what you will, these insects love cool, damp areas such as the ground underneath leaves, stones, and rotting logs. They look for similar areas in and under buildings. You’ll typically find them in damp areas, like crawl spaces, garages, behind appliances, and under piles of paper or clothing. They’re really good at locating laundry rooms and basements.
Beside their humpback appearance and long legs, camel crickets have several other distinguishing features. Adults grow to one-half to one-and-a-half inches in size (not counting legs and antennae). They range from light to dark brown, can have contrasting patches of color, and live approximately one to two years.
Camel crickets aren’t known to be dangerous to human health, as they lack fangs and cannot bite. However, they can become a nuisance if they make it into your home. Fabrics including clothes and curtains, cardboard (think of your keepsakes in storage boxes), and wood are favorite snacks.
Reducing areas of moisture in and around your house is the most effective way to prevent a camel cricket infestation. To reduce outdoor populations, keep crawl spaces, basements, and attics well ventilated; store firewood at least 20 feet away from your house; and remove leaf piles and debris. Also, move garbage cans away from your house, and mow tall grass.
Indoors, a dehumidifier can help prevent moisture buildup. Be sure to seal all possible entry points; these and other insects commonly come indoors through small cracks around doors, windows, and pipes.
If you suspect camel crickets have made your home their home, contact us for interior and exterior inspection. We’ll happily work with you to develop a treatment plan.
