Description
Jerusalem Crickets have a round, brown head and a brown and black striped abdomen and is also known as the “Potato Bug”. It has two dark, beady eyes behind two antennae. The Jerusalem Cricket is nocturnal and mostly lives underground. Its large muscular head helps it dig through dirt while it uses its h3 jaws to feed on roots and decaying plants. It will also eat live plants and insects.
The Jerusalem Cricket is not aggressive toward humans but does have 3 jaws and may deliver a painful but harmless bite if it feels threatened. During mating season it will create a drumming sound by thumping its abdomen on the ground.
Jerusalem Crickets are most often found outside in gardens and under rocks but their roaming may bring them indoors on occasion.
Color
Brown with Black
Size
1 1/4”-2”
Control Advice
Plant gardens and flowerbeds away from the home’s foundation. Sticky traps near doorways can be used to trap them. Jerusalem Crickets found inside can be relocated outside, away from the house.
Active Seasons
Jerusalem Crickets are most active in winter, spring and summer.