But first… What is a camel cricket? Those two words do not seem like they belong in the same animal name. Like all crickets, camel crickets have six legs and long, well-developed hind legs for jumping. Like camels, camel crickets are light to dark brown and their head is bent down, and back is arched up giving them a humped-back appearance. Also like camels, camel crickets do not pose any health threats to humans. They are not poisonous and are not known to carry any diseases. They don’t have fangs or the ability to bite but they can become a nuisance if they make themselves at home inside your house.
Camel Cricket Attractions
Also known as cave crickets, camel crickets are drawn to damp areas and are often found under leaves, stones, and rotting logs. While they are primarily outdoor insects, camel crickets will invade homes and businesses when it becomes too hot and dry outside. When this happens they seek the cooler damp areas in your home like basements, utility rooms, crawl spaces, and garages. Sometimes they can be found in wells, under sheds, or in drainage pipes. While they do not pose any health threats to people, camel crickets are known for congregating in large populations which increases the risk of damage during an infestation. These crickets will eat wood, carpet, fungi, cardboard, and other insects. While adult camel crickets can live for a long time without sufficient food sources, they will have no trouble eating you out of house and home if you let them.
Camel Cricket Prevention
As with many area pests, one of the primary things camel crickets are looking for when they enter your house is water. To prevent a growing infestation make sure to limit access to water whenever possible. Reduce moisture throughout your home by using a dehumidifier to prevent build-up, keeping crawl spaces, basements, and attics well ventilated, fix any leaks, and address areas of condensation.
You’ll also want to think about the area directly surrounding your home. If crickets are living just outside your walls it will increase the likelihood that they will find their way indoors. Store firewood at least twenty feet from the house and remove wood piles and debris as soon as possible. Keep garbage cans stored with tight-fitting lids, trim tall grass and keep shrubs and other greenery trimmed away from your home. Finally check for entry points. Many small insects and pests can make their way into your home through tiny cracks and crevices. Keep camel crickets and other unwanted invaders out by checking for cracks and crevices on the exterior of your home and sealing possible entry points. Also make sure window and door screens are in good condition and install door sweeps on all exterior doors.
Contact The Professionals
For the best way to get rid of camel crickets and other unwanted pests, call the professionals at Romney Pest Control. We are committed to providing effective and thorough pest control services and offer guaranteed solutions. With same-day service available and the fact that we take care of any issue between visits for free, it’s easy to see why we were named as Angie’s List Super Service Award winners for five consecutive years. If you are looking for help with camel crickets or other pests in the Houston area call us today for your free, no-obligation quote.
