Crickets are common in Florida, thriving in the state’s warm, humid climate. They are a familiar part of the natural soundscape, especially during warmer periods.
Common Cricket Species in Florida
Several cricket species inhabit Florida, each with distinct characteristics and preferred outdoor environments. House crickets, typically light brown or tan and measuring between 0.5 to 1 inch, are identifiable by dark bands across their heads, long antennae, and powerful jumping legs. Males produce a characteristic chirping sound by rubbing their wings together, commonly heard in gardens, mulch, and near vegetation.
Field crickets are larger than house crickets, up to 1 inch long, and dark brown to black. They have long antennae and robust hind legs, residing in grassy areas, gardens, and open fields. Their chirping is faster and more continuous than house crickets. Mole crickets, 1 to 1.5 inches, have cylindrical bodies and shovel-like front legs for burrowing. These nocturnal insects primarily inhabit sandy soil and turfgrass.
Camel crickets, also known as cave or spider crickets, are recognized by their humpbacked appearance, long legs, and antennae, measuring 0.5 to 1.5 inches. These tan to dark brown crickets often have dark bands and are wingless, so they do not chirp. They favor dark, damp locations like leaf litter, under logs, or in caves, and can jump considerable distances.
Crickets as Household Pests
Crickets often seek refuge inside homes, becoming a nuisance due to their chirping and potential for minor damage. They gain entry through small openings such as cracks in foundations, gaps around windows and doors, or tears in screens. Crickets are attracted to indoor warmth and moisture, especially during cooler weather or after heavy rainfall, and outdoor lights can also draw them towards structures.
Once indoors, male crickets create persistent, disruptive chirping sounds. Beyond the noise, crickets may damage household items, including fabrics, paper products, and stored foods. Their feeding can result in irregular holes or chewed edges on materials.
Preventing crickets from entering homes involves sealing potential entry points, such as caulking cracks around foundations, windows, and doors, and repairing any damaged screens. Reducing moisture and humidity both inside and outside the home is also beneficial. Maintaining a tidy outdoor environment by keeping lawns trimmed, removing leaf litter, and storing wood piles and debris away from the house can deter crickets. Using yellow or amber outdoor lights can minimize their attraction to the home. Regular vacuuming can help remove crickets and their eggs from indoor spaces.