Texas is known to house many overwintering pests such as stink bugs and ladybugs. One of the worst is Spider Cricket. Spider crickets will usually invade homes come fall and unlike other overwintering pests, they cause damages to homes and terrorize homeowners due to their massive size. A-Tex Pest Management will share why this pest should be feared and how you can keep them out of your home this fall.
Why Do Camel Crickets Jump at You?
The spider cricket, or also known as the cave cricket or camel cricket, is a large species of cricket that can reach up to four inches in length. They are rather robust cricket with a heavier body. They have a distinct hunch back and large back legs. The spider cricket’s size is unnerving enough, but they seem to jump toward people when frightened instead of away which makes many wonders why is this cricket so confident? Another unusual trait of this species of cricket is that they are silent. They don’t make chirping sounds like most species of crickets. Spider crickets stand more upward and at first glance, they resemble a spider. They vary in coloring and patterns. However, they are most often a light color varying from yellowish browns to creamy tan colors.
Nuisance Spider Crickets Attract Rodents
Spider crickets will begin to invade homes during the fall season as vegetation begins to wilt and temperatures begin to drop. Spider crickets will invade homes in search of food. In most cases the invasion is accidental. However, they can come in droves. Spider crickets don’t bite humans or spread any known diseases and are regarded more as a nuisance. Nevertheless, they are something to fear in the regard they leave behind major messes and can damage your home. Spider crickets leave sticky, dark smeary droppings all over your home as well. Mice and rats like to feed on spider crickets and will invade areas that are populated by spider crickets. Then, not only do you have a spider cricket problem, but you also have an upcoming rodent invasion. Spider crickets have a voracious appetite and feed on clothing, carpet, other fabrics, wood, molds, fungi and paper items. They often surprise household members, by jumping out at them which can be frightening. They love hiding in shadows and dark areas and are drawn to damp areas. They are most often found in basements, garages, and laundry rooms.
How to Get Rid of Spider Crickets
When you find spider crickets in your home, you will want to remove them. Use a vacuum cleaner to suck them up. For those with ambitious cats, they will hunt spider crickets due to the large jumping motions. Some homeowners like to use traps. Spider crickets are drawn to water, so fill up a large glass bowl. The crickets are unable to get out of the bowl and eventually drown. You can also use glue traps to help capture and kill a spider cricket problem.
Camel Cricket Prevention
However, it is much better to prevent spider crickets than try to control them. Move woodpiles away from the house and as far as possible. Next, maintain a clean yard. Trim back overgrowth to help reduce spider cricket habitats. Repair any broken plumbing outside, pools of water also draw in crickets and can assist in spider cricket populations. Your next step is making sure your home is secure. Seal any large open areas with caulking glue, and place wire mesh over attic and dryer vents. It is also recommended you leave lights off during the night. Like many insects, spider crickets are drawn to light. For further assistance use a professional pest control service.
Pest Control & More in Austin, Round Rock, Leander, Pflugerville & Cedar Park, Texas
A-Tex Pest Management can help control spider crickets along with many other pests that may invade your home this fall. For all of your pest control needs, contact A-Tex Pest Management today!