Jerusalem cricket (potato bug)

Ground-dwelling in loose, moist soil beneath rocks, logs, leaf litter, and gardens, chiefly in the western United States and Mexico.

Primarily feeds on roots, tubers, decaying plant matter, and occasionally small insects or other invertebrates.

Nocturnal and mostly subterranean, using powerful legs and jaws for digging; adults may emerge after rain and produce defensive hissing or drumming sounds.

Not venomous and generally harmless, though it can deliver a painful defensive bite if handled. It aerates and mixes soil and contributes to decomposition, but may damage seedlings or root crops.