The persistent, rhythmic chirping of crickets is one of the most recognizable sounds of a warm night, signaling the presence of these common insects. Crickets belong to the order Orthoptera, making them relatives of grasshoppers and katydids, and they are found in nearly every habitat across the globe. While they are often seen alone, crickets frequently gather in large numbers, prompting curiosity about the proper name for such a collection.
The Specific Collective Noun
The most widely recognized collective noun for a group of crickets is an “orchestra.” This term is a poetic alternative that directly references the insects’ famous acoustic output. Major dictionary sources do not officially recognize a standardized collective noun, meaning “orchestra” is largely a term of popular usage rather than a formal zoological designation.
The name “cricket” itself comes from the Old French word “criquet,” which means “to creak or rattle,” linking the insect permanently to the sound it produces. Other terms, like “swarm,” are often used to describe large, highly mobile aggregations of crickets, such as those that might suddenly appear near homes or businesses. Such usage typically describes the sheer number of insects, rather than a formalized grouping name.
Why Crickets Form Congregations
Crickets are considered subsocial, meaning they primarily live alone but will tolerate or seek out others when environmental conditions demand it. Mass accumulations, often called swarms, are temporary gatherings driven by ecological necessity rather than a permanent colony structure like those of ants or bees. A primary reason for gathering is to seek shelter and protection from predators, as there is safety in numbers.
These congregations often occur seasonally, particularly as summer transitions into fall, when crickets are actively looking for places to avoid cooling temperatures. They are also strongly attracted to bright, artificial light sources, which causes thousands of individuals to converge on structures and buildings with dusk-to-dawn lighting. Such accumulations are also a natural consequence of reproductive behavior, as high population density increases the chances of locating a mate.
Communication Within the Group
A group of crickets is defined by its acoustic signaling, a process known as stridulation, which is the primary form of communication. Male crickets produce this “singing” by rapidly rubbing a scraper on one forewing against a file-like structure on the other forewing. This action causes the wings to vibrate, and a specialized structure called a harp helps to amplify the sound.
The collective sound serves multiple functions once crickets have gathered in an area. The most well-known purpose is the calling song, which is designed to attract female crickets for mating. Males also use a more aggressive song to assert their territory and warn off competing males who approach their burrow. Each species possesses a distinct chirp pattern, allowing crickets to identify members of their own kind within the loud nighttime chorus.