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A closer look · Insect guide

Crickets

Orthoptera — cricket groups

Crickets usually have long antennae and strong hind legs. Many are active at night, but not every cricket makes a song.

Why do crickets chirp?

Male singing crickets make sound by rubbing their wings together. Field crickets are well known for this behavior.

Do all crickets have wings?

No. Camel crickets are wingless and have a hunched profile. Field and house crickets look different.

What do crickets eat?

Field and house crickets feed on plant material and may also eat dead or weakened insects. Diet varies among cricket groups.

Try one observation

Listen from one place and write down the pattern of pauses. If you cannot see the singer, keep the identification tentative.

Observe without handling or collecting. These clues are a starting point, not a confirmed identification.

Source & further reading

University of Minnesota Extension — Crickets

Published . Short introductory summary; consult the source for detail and regional context.

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