Crickets are common insects found in diverse environments worldwide, from grasslands and forests to gardens and even homes. These insects are often more heard than seen, their distinctive chirping a familiar sound on warm evenings. Crickets generally possess long antennae and strong hind legs, which aid in their movement and sensory perception.
The Purpose of Cricket Burrows
Some cricket species, notably field crickets and mole crickets, are known for their remarkable ability to dig and construct intricate burrows. Mole crickets have highly specialized, shovel-like forelegs adapted for efficient excavation, enabling them to move through soil with ease. Field crickets, while lacking such specialized limbs, utilize their mouthparts to bite the soil and their hind legs to push it away. These burrows serve multiple purposes for survival and reproduction.
A primary function of these burrows is to provide shelter from predators like birds and lizards. They also create a stable microclimate, protecting crickets from extreme heat, drought, heavy rainfall, or cold. This sanctuary is particularly important for molting, providing a secure space for nymphs to shed their exoskeletons.
Burrows are crucial for reproduction, serving as nesting sites where females deposit eggs. Some species, like certain mole crickets, even guard their eggs within these chambers until they hatch. Male crickets also use burrows as acoustic amplifiers, shaping them to enhance chirping calls and attract mates. Mole cricket tunnels can be quite extensive, sometimes stretching 10 to 20 feet long and reaching depths of up to 30 inches underground. These tunnels also facilitate foraging, as mole crickets feed on subterranean plant roots and organic matter.
Identifying Cricket Holes
Identifying cricket holes involves observing distinct characteristics and common locations. Mole cricket burrows typically manifest as small mounds of tan or brown dirt, often resembling miniature anthills, usually a few inches wide. In lawns, their tunneling activities near the surface can create noticeable ridges or bulges, particularly in sandy soil. The entrance to a mole cricket burrow is commonly about half an inch in width.
Field cricket burrows might feature a funnel-shaped opening, which also aids in sound amplification. These holes are generally circular or oval in shape. Common locations for finding cricket holes include lawns, gardens, under rocks, or near building foundations. While their mounds can sometimes be confused with those made by other small animals, they are considerably smaller than gopher mounds. A simple method to confirm the presence of mole crickets is to apply a mixture of soapy water to the suspected area, which can cause the crickets to surface.
Cricket Shelter Beyond Burrows
While some crickets are adept burrowers, many species utilize other shelters for protection. Crickets frequently seek refuge under natural elements such as logs, rocks, and leaf litter. They also hide within debris or exploit existing cracks and crevices in natural and man-made structures.
House crickets often migrate indoors as outdoor temperatures drop, seeking warmer, more humid environments. Inside homes, they commonly hide in basements, closets, near fireplaces, in cupboards, and within sheds. Crickets generally gravitate towards dark, protected spaces that offer moisture and security. Clutter, both indoors and outdoors, provides numerous hiding spots, making these areas attractive to crickets.