Mormon crickets (Anabrus simplex) are large insects known for their mass migrations across western North America. A common concern is their potential to bite humans. This article clarifies what Mormon crickets are and how they interact with people, highlighting the minimal threat they pose.
Understanding Mormon Crickets
The Mormon cricket is a large, ground-dwelling insect native to western North America. Despite their common name, they are a type of shield-backed katydid, belonging to the Tettigoniidae family. These insects can reach lengths of up to 3 inches (8 cm) and display varied coloration. They possess long antennae and a robust body, though their wings are vestigial, meaning they cannot fly.
Mormon crickets are known for their migratory swarms, which can involve millions of individuals traveling up to 1.25 miles (2 km) per day. These swarms are a significant aspect of their life cycle, which begins with eggs laid in the soil during summer, hatching in spring when soil temperatures reach about 40°F (4°C). Nymphs undergo several molts before reaching adulthood in 60 to 90 days. Their diet is primarily herbivorous, with a preference for forbs, grasses, and shrubs. They also exhibit cannibalistic behavior, consuming injured or dead individuals.
Mormon Cricket Behavior Towards Humans
Mormon crickets do not possess a stinging apparatus and are not venomous. Their primary defense involves strong jumping abilities and movement in large swarms. While they have mandibles, or jaws, these are adapted for chewing vegetation and other food sources like plant material.
Mormon crickets are not known to actively bite humans in a harmful or defensive manner. If contact occurs, it might be an exploratory nibble, which is generally harmless and causes no pain or injury. Such instances are rare and usually happen if the insect feels threatened or cornered, such as when picked up. Any resulting irritation from such contact is typically mild, comparable to a minor insect bite, and resolves on its own.
Encountering Mormon Crickets
When encountering Mormon crickets, particularly during large outbreaks, it is important to remain calm. These insects do not pose a direct threat to human health and do not transmit diseases. If a Mormon cricket lands on a person, it can be gently brushed off or allowed to move away on its own. Intentionally harming them is not necessary or recommended, as they are a natural part of the ecosystem.
While Mormon crickets do not endanger human health, their mass migrations can create significant nuisances. They can damage agricultural crops and home gardens due to their voracious feeding habits. Furthermore, large swarms crossing roadways can become a safety hazard, as crushed crickets can make road surfaces slick, potentially leading to dangerous driving conditions. Understanding their behavior helps in managing interactions with these insects.