Bug Identifier
Mole Cricket (Exuviae/Nymph)
Community identification

Mole Cricket (Exuviae/Nymph)

Gryllotalpidae (genus Neoscapteriscus or Gryllotalpa)

Order & Family
Order: Orthoptera; Family: Gryllotalpidae
Size
1 - 2 inches (2.5 - 5 cm) as adults; smaller as nymphs.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Underground in moist soil, gardens, and turfgrass; they are rarely seen above ground except after heavy rains or during mating flights.

Diet & Feeding

The diet includes plant roots, organic matter, and small soil-dwelling invertebrates depending on the specific species.

Behavior Patterns

They are highly adapted for digging with powerful spade-like front legs. They are nocturnal and spend most of their life cycle in subterranean tunnels.

Risks & Benefits

Primarily considered a turf and agricultural pest because their tunneling and root feeding can damage lawns and crops. They do not pose a direct venomous or physical risk to humans.