Crickets descend on Gatesville once again

Gatesville and Coryell County residents have undoubtedly noticed the recent invasion of crickets.

Late summer and early fall often signal the beginning of cricket season in Texas. Vast swarms of the irritating insects begin to invade central Texas for their annual visit.

It has been noted that a dry spring followed by an even drier summer often increases their numbers, which can certainly easily be applied to situations in Coryell County.

Considering the fact that female crickets can lay up to 400 eggs at a time, situations can sometimes get out of hand when dealing with the annoying insects. A female cricket, once she mates, spends most of her life laying up to 2,000 eggs.

In the past, it has been reported that some businesses in Texas have been forced to close their doors as thousands of crickets line the sidewalks and cling to the walls of buildings. Another disadvantage of the cricket invasion is the horrible smell they emit as they die, and their small carcasses begin to rot.

Crickets don’t pose a threat to humans, they don’t bite or sting, but can cause other issues such as unsanitary situations with dead bugs littering streets, buildings, and lawns.

Seasonal crickets can often be prevented by controlling outdoor lighting. Outside lights should be dimmed, and blinds or curtains, when using indoor lights, should be kept closed to prevent a swarm from invading a residence. The insects are often attracted to light, food, and shelter.

Weatherstripping around doors and windows can also be a big asset in the prevention of crickets invading homes. Areas open around air vents or pipes can also allow them to gain entry.

However annoying crickets can be, it can be hard to admit they are useful insects that help to balance the ecosystem. They are considered to be omnivores that eat a variety of plants, flowers, fruits, and sometimes other insects.

However disgusting it may sound, in Cambodia and Vietnam, crickets are sometimes considered to be a delicacy. In other cultures, they are a sign of good luck.

In Coryell County, they are just considered “annoying pests.”