Camel Cricket or Cave Cricket

Scientific Name: Various genera within Rhaphidophoridae, e.g., Ceuthophilus, Tachycines

Order & Family: Order Orthoptera, Family Rhaphidophoridae

Size: Typically 1 to 5 cm (0.4 to 2 inches) in body length, with very long antennae and legs.

Camel Cricket or Cave Cricket

Natural Habitat

Damp, dark, and secluded environments such as caves, hollow logs, under rocks, basements, crawl spaces, and sheds. They thrive in environments with high humidity.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous, feeding on organic matter, decaying wood, fungi, plants, and even other small insects. They are opportunistic scavengers.

Behavior Patterns

Camel crickets are typically nocturnal and highly elusive, known for their strong jumping ability when startled. They do not chirp like true crickets because males lack stridulatory organs. They prefer damp, dark environments.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans. They are not known to bite or carry diseases. However, large infestations indoors can be considered a nuisance, and they may chew on fabrics, wood, or plants if other food sources are scarce. Ecologically, they serve as scavengers and a food source for other animals.

Identified on: 8/22/2025