Hogarth's Pest Control specializes in all types of industries, residential and commercial.
Crickets represent any of approximately 2,400 species of leaping insects that are found worldwide. There are three different species of cricket found in Northern Michigan: the Camel, Cave, and Field. Crickets feed on plants and typically reach maturity in July and August. They are nocturnal and are known for their loud chirping noises from males looking to attract the females. The sounds are made when males rub their front wings together to attract females. They live primarily outdoors but can make their way inside of structures. In the fall, when the air is dry, and weeds and grasses start to dry up and die, crickets will attempt to invade homes; they enter through spaces under doors and open cracks. Once they are inside the house, they can survive indefinitely.
These insects can bite but rarely do, as their mouths are not strong enough to puncture the skin. Crickets do, however, carry a significant number of diseases, which can cause painful sores but are ultimately not fatal to humans. These diseases can be spread through physical contact or their feces.
Signs of an Infestation
The most obvious sign of a cricket infestation is the presence of crickets inside the home. They are drawn to the warm, moist environments within homes or other structures. Another sign of a cricket infestation is the chirping noise the male house crickets often make, which is done when they rub their front wings together. This “calling song” serves to attract females and, since they’re nocturnal, often occurs at night. If homeowners hear this chirping, it could be a sign of a house cricket infestation. Chewed fabric is also a sign of a house cricket infestation. Mandible marks along chewed edges are often visible with magnification. These marks are much less than 1 mm wide.
We have noticed population fluctuations from year to year. This is a time when homeowners may be overrun with them and require professional treatment to eradicate them from home. If you are suffering from crickets in your home, please give us a call!
