Because they overwinter as nymphs, Spring Field Crickets develop quickly when warm weather arrives and adults typically appear and begin singing and mating in late spring, continuing until late June or early July, when they finish laying eggs and die off.
These nocturnal insects are most active during the spring and late fall months. This is when they are usually seen wandering around, as this is their mating season. The cooler temperatures and increased humidity during these months provide ideal conditions for their activity.
Late summer and fall are when adult crickets become especially abundant around homes and commercial buildings.
Seasonally, crickets chirp during the warmer months, with a peak in late summer when temperatures are highest. Their chirping decreases as the weather cools. Male crickets begin chirping soon after reaching adulthood and continue throughout their adult life, which can last from a few weeks to a couple of months.
Yes, there are several natural methods to deter crickets. As mentioned before, diatomaceous earth and essential oils can be effective at creating a barrier that crickets will avoid. Planting natural deterrents, such as lavender, mint, or marigolds, around the perimeter of a building can also help keep crickets away.
Crickets dislike certain scents, such as peppermint, lavender, citronella, or vinegar. Using essential oils or natural repellents with these scents around your house may help discourage crickets from entering.
Moisture and Humidity
Crickets thrive in moist environments. Basements often have higher humidity levels, which attract these pests. They seek out damp areas to stay hydrated and reproduce. Running a dehumidifier in your basement can help reduce moisture levels.
Crickets love apples, and they love lettuce. Cut up an apple and some lettuce, toss it together, put some sweet molasses on the salad, place it near the sound and lay out sticky traps (keep pets away). Another way to do this is to include a small dish with a mixture of molasses, vanilla extract and lemon juice.
On average, adult crickets live anywhere from six weeks to three months. This can vary depending on a range of factors, including the cricket species, environmental conditions, and the availability of food and shelter.
Crickets may be considered “good” but if you find them inside, it could indicate that you have too much moisture in the home. Furthermore, there could be gaps, cracks, or other spaces where they're entering your house.
Apply Ortho® Home Defense® Insect Killer for Indoor & Perimeter around the outside of your house to help keep crickets out. Treat your lawn with Ortho® BugClear™ Lawn Insect Killer.
Take an empty bottle and cut the top of the bottle off to create a funnel. Turn the funnel upside down and place it into the other end of the bottle with no lid. Use duct tape to seal the two halves, put a layer of sugar inside the container, and lay it on its side near the suspected cricket activity location.
Crickets typically go away or decrease in numbers during the colder months of fall and winter. As temperatures drop, they enter a state of reduced activity or hibernation, seeking shelter in protected areas to survive the cold. As spring approaches and temperatures rise, they become more active again.
Ever notice how crickets seem to get louder when it's warm outside? That's because they're cold-blooded creatures, so the temperature affects their energy levels. The warmer it is, the faster and louder they chirp. It's like they're turbo-charged by the heat, making those nights feel even longer.
Regardless of the species type, they're in your home for specific reasons: Moisture: Especially in a desert climate like Arizona, crickets are looking for sources of water to drink. This is why they are drawn to warm, dark places that produce moisture.
Sprinkle some diatomaceous earth
Found in home improvement or garden stores, DE is safe to use around people and pets and can be sprinkled indoors and outdoors in crevices where there's a cricket problem. Make sure to get food-grade DE, and only use the powder in dry places. If it gets wet, it won't be effective.
Bug superstitions suggest that it's very bad luck to kill a cricket, even on accident. These insects are creatures of the wind and water, which means they represent change and subconscious dreams in many cultures. Prosperity, strength, peace, purity, courage, and harmony are other traits associated with dragonflies.
While house crickets don't post a health risk to humans, they can cause damage to property, specifically clothing, carpets and areas covered in fabric. Favorite fabrics include wool, cotton, silk and synthetics.
How long do crickets live? Crickets typically live for about eight to ten weeks. Their lifecycle comprises several stages, starting with the egg, where they are laid in the soil and hatch within one to two weeks. The next stage is the nymph stage, during which they resemble adult crickets but lack wings.
Vinegar is another natural cricket repellent. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and apply it to areas where crickets are likely to enter or hide.
Crickets are repelled by spicy scents, which makes chili powder an excellent option to get rid of crickets naturally. Create a mixture of chili powder, two cups of water, and a few drops of dish soap.