Camel crickets are a pest that is taking over Las Vegas. They’re everywhere! Learn more about camel crickets, how to recognize them, and why they are dangerous. Camel crickets are common pests in Las Vegas.
They are about 1/2 inch long and can be wide as a pen cap. They are light to reddish-brown, and as the name suggests, they have a humpback. Camel crickets have six legs and jump when frightened. Their antennae are longer than their bodies and rely mainly on the sense of touch. They remain in the egg stage over winter and hatch during the summer months.
Crickets are very loud, but many people will be surprised to know that not all crickets make a sound, only the males do. They scrape their wings together to create the chirping sound. However, neither the male nor female camel cricket makes noise. They are one of the few species that do not produce sound.
Are Crickets Dangerous To Humans?
Yes. Camel crickets are harmful to humans because of the damage they cause. They are not a normal part of the Las Vegas ecosystem, but you can sometimes spot them in buildings and apartments. They come from outdoors and breed indoors, which is problematic for residents and property owners alike. Camel crickets damage plants and belongings inside the home, including curtains, fabrics, paper, and leather items.
What Attracts Camel Crickets To Your Las Vegas Home?
Camel crickets are attracted to light, but they hide in dark areas. They are nocturnal creatures and look for food at night. They prefer moist places, which is why you find them in garbage cans and the basements and cellars of homes. They try to escape the dry conditions outside as they do not survive for long outdoors.
They live off of garbage and other items that can be easily accessed, such as wood and other organic materials. They are omnivorous insects and feed on both animals and plants as well. They will eat anything inside the home, such as food left out, the trash that is not disposed of properly, other insects, and indoor plants.
Camel Cricket Prevention Tips
Camel crickets become a problem when they begin to multiply and spread outside of your home. To prevent camel crickets from entering your home, ensure you have taken steps to eliminate entry points and reduce attracting factors, such as:
Make sure to empty your trash can every day and dispose of garbage properly.
Do not leave any food outside for pets to eat because it will attract camel crickets and other hungry pests.
Keep woodpiles at least 20 feet away from your home.
Eliminate all sources of moisture by repairing leaky pipes, dripping faucets, and drainage issues.
Seal all cracks and holes in the foundation and walls around the house.
Remove clutter from the attic as the attic is the perfect place for camel crickets to breed.
Keep rooms inside the home well ventilated.
Be sure the screens on your windows are intact and that they are closed all the way.
To take your Las Vegas pest control efforts even further and get rid of camel crickets, contact the cricket control professionals at Anderson Pest Control. We will inspect, eliminate and prevent them from invading again.