House Cricket

Acheta domesticus

House crickets are distantly related to grasshoppers and were most likely introduced to the U.S. between 1950 and 2000 when they became the standard feeder insect for the pet and research industries. They are known for their loud chirping which is caused when males rub their front wings together to attract females.

Color	Light brown with three dark cross bands on the head
Legs	6
Shape	Long and winged with prominent back legs and shorter forelegs
Size	3/4 – 7/8”
Antennae	True

Are house crickets harmful?

House crickets are nocturnal and usually prefer cool, dark and damp habitats like the spaces under rocks and inside basements and crawl spaces.

Do house crickets fly?

House crickets are fully winged and can fly, unlike some other species of crickets, like the camel cricket. However, house crickets usually prefer to crawl or hop, using their prominent hind legs for power.

What do house crickets eat?

House crickets are omnivores. In nature, house crickets eat rotting leaves, rotting fruit, vegetables and insects. Once inside a home or other building, house crickets will feed on a variety of fabrics and wallpaper glue. House crickets prefer fabrics made of natural fibers like wool and silk.

If you’ve spotted house crickets inside your home, get help from the professionals at Hughes Exterminators using the form below.