Tawny Mole Cricket

Natural Habitat

Subterranean burrows in turfgrass, pastures, and sandy soils

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous; primarily feeds on the roots, stems, and leaves of grasses and garden plants

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and subterranean. They use shovel-like forelegs to tunnel through soil. Males produce a loud chirping song from tunnel entrances to attract mates during spring and fall.

Risks & Benefits

Significant agricultural and turf pest that causes damage by feeding on roots and disrupting soil through tunneling; no direct physical risk to humans but can be a nuisance.

Identified on: 1/2/2026