Crickets Swarm in Northeastern Nevada
The town of Elko and many others in Northeastern Nevada are being struck with a wave of pungent, blood-red crickets (actually shield-backed katydids). The absurd size of the swarm has been called “biblical” by some, and the size of the insects is terrifying to many as well – some Elko citizens have reported them being larger than their thumbs! Snow plows and trucks are combing the streets well into the evenings to clear the hundreds of thousands of insects and improve the safety of their town roadways.
While we’re thankful that Las Vegas isn’t the epicenter (and even more thankful these katydids are flightless, our cricket exterminators are doing our research and training to be best prepared to handle them. If you are in need of cricket control services, reach out today for a call back in 30 minutes or less!
Nevada Crickets Swarm: What to Know
Sometimes called Mormon crickets, these katydids bury their eggs about an inch deep in the soil in hopes that they will hatch the following spring. While this usually runs smoothly, these cricket eggs can lay dormant for up to 11 years. They usually hatch and begin to swarm in late May or early June, so this cricket infestation has come later than it usually does.
It turns out that the fruits of a particularly prolific breeding season were lying latent in the soil – so much so that our northern neighbors are bringing out the leaf blowers, pressure washers, and anything else they can to get them out of their driveways, roads, and yards.
Are Mormon Crickets Dangerous?
The dangerous consequence of the inevitable steamrolling of crickets as you drive your car through the swarm is the slick road conditions they create when they’re crushed. One Elko resident reported sliding off the road into a ditch trying to turn a cricket-painted corner.
The katydids themselves, though, only pose a danger to each other. Both crickets and katydids aren’t venomous and rarely pierce skin in the slim circumstances in which they bite. However, they have no problem consuming the carcasses of their slain generation, as well as just about anything else in their path, including crops and small mammals.
Are Mormon Crickets in Las Vegas?
Not right now. However, due to the drought that the Southwest is experiencing, experts predict that cricket infestations could worsen in the next 5 to 20 years. This can come with serious consequences for farmers and those of us with home gardens.
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Cricket Exterminators in Las Vegas NV
If you’re looking to protect your home or business from crickets in Las Vegas, Pest Control Inc. is your local expert. As a QualityPro certified company and members of the National Pest Management Association, our cricket exterminators are highly trained and licensed to conduct safe and effective cricket pest control services. Give us a call or fill out our contact form today to learn more about how we can help you!
Crickets Swarm in Northeastern Nevada in Las Vegas and Henderson NV
Extermination Services in Las Vegas NV, North Las Vegas and Henderson NV
