Camel Crickets

Camel crickets get their name because of their slightly humpbacked appearance. Unlike most cricket species, Camel crickets don’t chirp. Because of their long legs and lack of wings – some people mistake them for a spider. They are nocturnal and hide during the day. There are actually several species called camel crickets. One species, Tachycines asynamorous or "greenhouse stone cricket" frequently becomes a nuisance indoors. Camel crickets often become a problem when we have extremes in weather conditions, i.e, excessive rainfall or extended periods of hot, dry weather. Like many insect pests, camel crickets are attracted to cool, moist/humid areas in and around our homes. The crickets often invade storage buildings, crawlspaces, basements, garages and indoor areas where moisture may be a problem (e.g., bathrooms, laundry rooms, etc.). Control begins outdoors with reduction or elimination of moist harborage areas near the structure, such as removing wood piles and debris. Crawlspaces should be well ventilated and a moisture barrier in place. Seal entry points such as door thresholds and installing doorsweeps and holes in the masonry. Microencapsulated or wettable power formulations are particularly effective.