Jerusalem Cricket

Found in the western United States and Mexico, typically living in agricultural areas, woodlands, and gardens where they can burrow into moist soil.

Omnivorous; they feed on decaying plant matter, roots, tubers, and occasionally other small insects.

They are nocturnal, flightless, and spend most of their time underground. They are known for a drumming behavior where they strike their abdomen against the ground to communicate with mates.

They have no venom but possess strong mandibles that can deliver a painful bite if mishandled. They are beneficial to the ecosystem as decomposers and a food source for birds and mammals, though they can occasionally damage crops or gardens.