Crickets are known for their iconic chirping sound that can be heard on a quiet summer night. Their chirping is also commonly used as a sound effect in television and film to signal a joke that falls flat. Crickets are considered a delicacy in some cultures, revered in many different ways, including covered in chocolate.
Recently, crickets have gained popularity in more cultures as an eco-friendly superfood. Although they can provide an excellent source of nutrition, most people in the United States aren’t jumping at the opportunity to include them in their daily diets.
Common Crickets In Streator, IL
Field crickets and house crickets are two species you might come across on your Streator property. House crickets are yellowish-brown and are about ¾ to 7/8 inch long, and are not native to North America. They are distributed throughout the continent to feed pets such as reptiles, frogs, and turtles. They are also commonly used for fishing bait and are effective in catching catfish. Unfortunately, house crickets can escape and reproduce, becoming a problem for some homeowners.
Field crickets vary in color from black to light brown and are ½ to 1-1/8 of an inch in size. All field crickets have wings, but only the adult male crickets use their wings to create the chirping sound. Another distinct feature of field crickets, and most all cricket species, are their large back legs. These legs make crickets powerful jumpers, which is often the most frustrating part about catching them if they are inside your home.
How Are Crickets Destructive?
Many people don’t consider crickets to be destructive pests and often, they aren’t considered a pest unless they make their way inside a home or building. However, field crickets can be destructive to crops if in large numbers.
If crickets get into your home, they can feed on just about any household item. They can cause damage to furniture, fabrics, furs, and leather. Crickets can ruin any items held together by glue as they like the starch that is found in glue. Damage can also be caused by bodily secretions such as urine.
In large numbers, crickets can cause health concerns, but if you keep on top of home maintenance, you should be able to avoid an infestation that bad.
Keeping Crickets Out
Like any pest, crickets are attracted to a property for food, water, and shelter. They are also attracted to nighttime lights. To keep crickets from making a home on your property, you can do the following:
Reduce And Remove Harborage Areas: Crickets hide under items such as garbage cans, pavers, firewood. Keep items such as these away from your home, and make sure to trim grass and foliage regularly.
Reduce Nighttime Light: You can switch out bright light bulbs for duller yellow bulbs and keep the blinds closed at night.
Keep Your Gutters Clean: Crickets can feed on the leaves and other organic material.
Fix Leaks: Many pests, including crickets, are attracted to moisture.
Patch Up Entry Points: Keep crickets from getting into your home; you should inspect your foundation and remove possible entry points.
Call In Professionals: Professional help is a sure way to keep crickets and other pests off your property.
Help From Quik-Kill Pest Eliminators
For more advice or assistance, contact the professionals at Quik-Kill Pest Eliminators. You don’t have to wait until you have a pest problem to get help. It is better to get routine preventative help to ensure pests don’t become destructive on your property and in your home. Call us at Quik-Kill Pest Eliminators today to find out about our home pest control options and to request a free inspection.