
Community identification
Tree cricket
Likely *Oecanthus* species
- Order & Family
- Orthoptera; Gryllidae (true crickets), subfamily Oecanthinae
- Size
- Adults are typically 12–20 mm long, excluding antennae and legs.
Natural Habitat
Vegetation, shrubs, trees, and gardens, especially warm areas with grasses or leafy plants. Often attracted to lights at night.
Diet & Feeding
Primarily feeds on leaves, flowers, pollen, nectar, and occasionally small insects or insect eggs.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal and pale green, with long antennae and wings held roof-like over the body. Males produce characteristic nighttime songs by rubbing their wings; females lay eggs in plant stems.
Risks & Benefits
Harmless to people and generally causes little plant damage. It benefits ecosystems as prey and may consume small soft-bodied insects and eggs.