Field Cricket

Scientific Name: Gryllus pennsylvanicus (or other Gryllus species)

Order & Family: Orthoptera, Gryllidae

Size: 15-25 mm (0.6-1.0 inch) in length

Field Cricket

Natural Habitat

Found in fields, grasslands, gardens, and often invade homes, especially in basements or ground levels seeking warmth or shelter. They prefer damp, dark environments indoors.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous; they feed on decaying plant matter, young plants, seeds, fruits, other insects (both living and dead), and even fabrics like wool, cotton, silk, and synthetic materials if food is scarce.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal, active at night. Males are known for their distinctive chirping sounds produced by rubbing their wings together (stridulation) to attract females. They are generally solitary but can be found in groups. They can reproduce rapidly under favorable conditions.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can be considered a nuisance pest indoors due to their chirping, especially at night, which can be disruptive. They can cause minor damage to fabrics, paper products, and sometimes food items if indoors in large numbers. They don't bite or transmit diseases to humans. Benefits: Outdoors, they are part of the food chain, serving as food for birds, small mammals, and other predators. They also aid in decomposition by consuming decaying plant matter.

Identified on: 9/5/2025