Stenopelmatus fuscus
Physical Features
Up to 2 inches long, Jerusalem crickets are most recognized for their large, bald, shiny and curved brown head with two wide set dark eyes. They have long brown antennae with an abdomen that is black and brown striped.
Life Cycle
Gradual metamorphosis
Mating will occur in the spring. The female will eat the male after they have mated. She will lay her eggs in small burrows she makes in the soil. Nymphs and adults are wingless and slow moving. Development will occur in one year.
Habits
- Diet: Mainly feed on dead insects, but also feed on root or tubers.
- Activity: Mainly at night but can be early morning or evening
- Preferred Climate: Arid climates.
- Defense: Nest about six inches under the soil (typical moist, loose soil.)
- Cautions: Larger sized cricket which can worry people, but they are not a concern.
- Home Invasion: Infrequently enter homes. Usually, they reside in small numbers or singly.
Helpful Hints
- Remove items sitting on soil. They will often reside under these in the soil.
Interesting Facts
Jerusalem crickets have powerful jaws that, if pestered, they will use to bite. They are not poisonous.
Symptoms
None
Nesting Sites
Live mostly underground. If they do reach the surface, they may harbor under rocks or in open grassy pastures. They can also be found and dug out of manure and damp places.
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