Most have experienced crickets at one point in their lives. They are just as common as ants, spiders, and cockroaches and just as grotesque looking. With a plethora of species, crickets can virtually be living in any area. Today, we at A-Tex Pest Management would like to take the opportunity to focus on camel cricket for inquisitive minds.
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Camel Cricket Identification
Their informal name, the camel cricket, is derived from their humpback appearance, as it is very similar looking to that of a camel. A very common cricket found in Texas, the United States, and even the world. Unlike their cousins, the camel cricket lacks sound-producing organs, making them slightly less annoying as they do not chirp all hours into the night with the songs of their people. In addition to not chirping like other crickets, they also do not have wings like other species. Despite their flightless abilities, they leap as their defense mechanism to scare off predators, and most will agree their awkward but large jumps are quite frightening. Camel crickets do not only have a distinct humpback, but they are often mottled with dark bands on some segments and vary in color from light to dark brown. Like most insects, they are equipped with antennae and 6 legs where the hind legs are very large to enable incredible leaps. These crickets grow ½”- 1 ½” long.
Where Do Camel Crickets Live & Other Facts
Like other crickets, camel crickets are nocturnal; hiding during the day and active during the evening. In early spring the females will lay their eggs and then the eggs will hatch during April. Typically, camel crickets prefer cool, moist environments; often found around buildings like under mulch, woodpiles, stones, railroad ties, and debris. Additionally, these crickets can be squatting in residential areas that have their ideal conditions such as in wells and drainage pipes, or under sheds and air conditioner units. If they manage to make their way into your home or business, utility rooms, crawl spaces, garages, damp basements, and occasionally in attics. Generally, camel crickets will retreat to the indoors when the weather becomes too hot and dry. Becoming a nuisance at best if they gain entry to the home, camel crickets do not pose any health threats to humans although some species are linked to inflicting damage to clothing and other fabrics like curtains.
Camel Cricket Prevention
Reducing areas of moisture in and around the home tops the list of most effective ways to prevent a camel cricket infestation. To prevent moisture buildup indoors, a dehumidifier is recommended in addition to sealing all possible points of entry around the house, ensuring all crawl spaces, basements and attics are well ventilated, and storing firewood at least 20 feet away from the house as well as make sure the screens are in optimal condition and installed when the weather permits open windows and doors.
Pavement Ant Inspections, Prevention & Control in Austin, Round Rock, Leander, Pflugerville & Cedar Park, Texas
Should you find your home or business infested with camel crickets, contact A-Tex Pest Management and let our knowing specialists remove these pesky insects from your home quickly and efficiently.