| Scientific name | Acheta domesticus |
|---|---|
| Group | Other Insects |
| Size | 16–21 mm (up to about 0.83 in) |
| Colors | Tan and Brown |
| Legs | 6 legs |
| Wings | Yes |
| Where found | Basement or garage and Indoors, anywhere |
| Most active | Summer and Fall |
| Bites | No |
| Stings | No |
| Risk level | Harmless |
How to identify it
The house cricket is a medium-sized member of the other insects group. Crickets, fleas, lice, mantises, dragonflies and other groups. Check for these three features:
- Yellowish-brown body with dark crossbands on the head
- Long antennae and large jumping hind legs
- Males chirp by rubbing their wings together
About this bug
A light yellowish-brown cricket with three dark bands on its head that chirps loudly at night. It wanders indoors in fall and can chew fabric and paper.
You'll usually find house crickets in basements and garages and indoors. They are most active in summer and fall.
Is it dangerous?
House crickets are harmless, though they can damage clothing and keep you awake.
Our rating: Harmless, meaning it poses no real threat to people, pets or property.
When you'll see house crickets
House Crickets are most active in summer and fall. Summer heat speeds up development, so populations can grow quickly. In fall, many bugs look for shelter, and some move toward or into buildings.
Typical places to check: basement or garage and indoors, anywhere.
About other insects
The house cricket is one of the other insects. This group covers insects from several orders, including crickets, grasshoppers, fleas, lice, mantises, dragonflies, lacewings and planthoppers. Their life cycles vary widely: fleas and lacewings go through complete metamorphosis, while crickets, grasshoppers, mantises and lice grow gradually through nymph stages.
Check the specific profile for timing, because each of these insects has its own season and habits.
What to do about it
- Seal gaps under doors and around basement windows
- Reduce outdoor lighting near entrances
- Use sticky traps along basement walls
Bugs that look similar
Size: House Crickets are larger, reaching 21 mm, while camel crickets top out around 19 mm.
Size: Differential Grasshoppers are larger, reaching 50 mm, while house crickets top out around 21 mm.
Frequently asked questions
What does a house cricket look like?
Yellowish-brown body with dark crossbands on the head. Adults measure 16–21 mm (up to about 0.83 in).
Does the house cricket bite or sting?
It does not bite. It does not sting. House crickets are harmless, though they can damage clothing and keep you awake.
Where do house crickets live?
House Crickets live in basements and garages and indoors.
When are house crickets most active?
Mostly in summer and fall.