800-837-5520 Call us for a free quote Contact us

Cricket facts & identification

What are crickets?

Crickets are small insects with long, slender bodies known for their loud chirping sounds. They are considered nuisance pests as they will infest properties, especially during the winter months. Like many other occasional invaders, crickets will seek shelter during the colder parts of the year and lay eggs, making crickets in basements a common issue.

People most often encounter crickets indoors in the late fall, early winter when the temperatures start dropping and then again in the spring when the temperatures begin warming up. Typically in April, cricket eggs hatch and the nymph and young adult crickets become active inside properties. Of course in parts of the country where it stays relatively warm year round, cricket infestations can occur at any time.

Male crickets are known to make a loud chirping sound to attract mates. In addition to their annoying noise, crickets may also damage fabrics, plants, and other materials by feeding on them. Read on to learn how to identify, treat, and prevent these pests from disrupting your home.  

If you are experiencing a cricket infestation in your home or business, contact your local Ehrlich Pest Control by calling 800-837-5520 or filling out our contact form online

Contact your local cricket control expert

* Required field

Download this report

Free Home Pest Inspections

Ehrlich specialists work hard to keep your home pest-free.

What do crickets look like?

Crickets are small insects with long, slender bodies and large, powerful hind legs that help them jump great distances. Their bodies are typically brown or black, with some species showing distinct markings. Crickets have long antennae and a pair of wings, though some species, like camel crickets, are wingless.

Crickets are known for their ability to make a loud chirping sound by rubbing their wings together. This is usually done by males in search of mates, and the sound varies between species. Crickets are also most active at night, which makes them more noticeable when you hear their sounds.

Common types of crickets in the U.S.

There are about 100 cricket species in the United States, but only a few types of crickets commonly infest properties. Here are 4 of the most common cricket species in the U.S. Click the links below for detailed information about each species.

Camel crickets: Brown with a humped back, typically growing over an inch long. They are wingless and often found in dark, damp environments.

House crickets: Yellow-brown in color, house crickets are around 1-1.5 inches long. They are nocturnal and attracted to light, making them more visible around windows or porch lights.

Field crickets: Dark brown field crickets are about 1-1.5 inches long. They have long, slender bodies with large wings and are known for their loud chirping, particularly during the summer months.

Mole crickets: Have a brownish color with spade-like forelegs designed for digging. They are approximately 1-2 inches long and are often found beneath the soil, damaging lawns and gardens.

Do you require professional cricket removal?

Whether you're facing cricket infestations in your home or commercial property, Ehrlich Pest Control is here to help. Our expert technicians provide targeted cricket control and removal solutions to eliminate infestations and prevent future problems.

With over 85 years of experience, Ehrlich has the tools and expertise needed to ensure your property is safe. Book a free pest inspection today by calling 800-837-5520 or filling out our contact form online

It is important to contact pest control professionals as soon as possible when a cricket infestation is discovered so that the problem doesn't get worse.

It's important to address a cricket problem quickly to avoid it growing into a bigger issue. Contacting pest control professionals early can help prevent further damage to your property and belongings.

For more information, visit our guide to getting rid of crickets in your home.

Why Ehrlich?

Discover the benefits of working with Ehrlich

How to get rid of crickets

Are crickets bothering you? See how Ehrlich can get rid of crickets here!

Year-round pest control!

Protection from 39 pests and peace of mind with preventative maintenance from PestFree365+. Learn more.

Frequently asked questions

Are crickets good or bad for your yard?

Crickets can be both beneficial and problematic in your yard. They help break down organic material and serve as food for birds, reptiles, and other beneficial wildlife. However, large cricket populations can damage plants, grass, and even fabric or stored items if they move indoors. Certain species, like mole crickets, are especially harmful as they dig tunnels and disrupt lawns.

Where do crickets hide during the day?

Crickets are most commonly found hiding in dark, damp, and sheltered areas during the day. Outdoors, they seek cover under rocks, logs, mulch, and thick vegetation. Indoors, crickets often hide in basements, crawl spaces, garages, and behind furniture or appliances. They prefer quiet, undisturbed areas where they can stay cool and protected.

Are crickets nocturnal?

Yes, crickets are nocturnal. They are most active at night when they search for food and mates. Their signature chirping sounds are also more noticeable in the evening and nighttime hours. Crickets rely on the cover of darkness to avoid predators and navigate their surroundings.

Do crickets travel in pairs?

No, crickets do not travel in pairs. They are generally solitary insects but may gather in areas with abundant food or shelter. While they don’t move in coordinated groups, large cricket populations can sometimes swarm, especially in agricultural settings or when they seek warmth indoors.

What month are crickets most active?

Crickets are typically most active in late summer and early fall when temperatures are warm and mating season is in full swing. In colder regions, their activity decreases as winter approaches. However, in warmer climates, crickets can remain active year-round, particularly indoors or in protected outdoor spaces.

Find your local branch

We were unable to access your location. Adjust your browser settings or enter your place or zip code above

Identify your pest

Identifying a pest that you have encountered is an essential first step in dealing with any pest infestation. Pest ID helps you identify common pests.