CRICKETS 101

 Crickets are insects that are well known for their chirping sounds, which are accomplished by the rubbing together of long hind legs and front wings. Only the male crickets can produce this noise. Field crickets tend to be nocturnal and are characterized by slightly flattened looking, light brown to dark brown colored bodies and long antennae. Like all insects, their bodies are protected by an exoskeleton, which is a tough outer casing or shell. 

 When the outside temperature begins to drop, crickets begin to look for a place to shelter from the winter weather.  They will move into homes and buildings where they have everything they need: food, warmth, moisture and shelter. They are scavengers and their diet consists primarily of organic materials and may also include decaying plant matter and small seedlings. Once they begin to infest a property, they may damage clothing, fabric, furniture coverings, curtains and even wallpaper.

 Although they can bite, it is very unusual for a cricket to actually puncture human skin. Crickets do however carry a significant number of diseases, which, although having the ability to cause painful sores, are not fatal to humans. These numerous diseases can be spread through their bite, physical contact or their feces.