The Jerusalem cricket is a large, burrowing insect that frequently sparks curiosity and alarm among people who encounter it. This solitary, nocturnal creature is instantly recognizable due to its unusual and often intimidating appearance, leading to a variety of common names and widespread misconceptions. Despite its common name, this insect is not native to the Middle East, nor is it a true cricket. Its secretive, subterranean lifestyle and robust physique have made it a subject of fascination throughout Western North America.
Identifying the Jerusalem Cricket
Adults are robust, flightless creatures, typically measuring between one and three inches in length, depending on the specific species encountered. Their coloration generally ranges from a light amber to a reddish-brown, with a thick, shiny abdomen often banded with alternating stripes of black and lighter tan. The most striking feature is the insect’s disproportionately large head, which appears bulbous and smooth. This large head houses a pair of powerful mandibles, which the insect uses primarily for digging and processing its food. Possessing no wings, the insect moves by crawling on six stout legs that are heavily armored and adapted for a subterranean existence.
Misclassification and True Identity
The name “Jerusalem cricket” is a misnomer; this insect is not classified with the true crickets (family Gryllidae) but belongs to the family Stenopelmatidae, known as “stone crickets” or “sand crickets.” Though both groups are in the insect order Orthoptera, the Jerusalem cricket’s unique morphology and behavior set it apart from its chirping relatives. Its widespread presence in agricultural areas led to the common name “Potato Bug” because it feeds on underground tubers, such as potatoes and carrots. In Spanish-speaking regions, the insect is often called Niño de la Tierra, or “Child of the Earth.” The origin of the name “Jerusalem” is not definitively known but is widely believed to be a colloquial expression used when people were startled by the insect.
Location and Underground Life
The Jerusalem cricket is native to Western North America, with its geographical range extending from the Pacific Coast eastward through the Southwest United States and into Mexico. They are particularly common in California, where many species have been identified, and thrive in areas with loose, sandy, or moist soil. These insects are strictly nocturnal, spending the daylight hours deep beneath the surface, burrowing and tunneling in the soil. They surface primarily at night to forage, or occasionally when their burrows are flooded by rain or disturbed by human activity. Their diet is omnivorous, consisting mainly of decaying organic matter, plant roots, and tubers, but they will also opportunistically consume small insects and carrion.
Dispelling the Dangerous Myths
Despite their intimidating size and appearance, Jerusalem crickets are not venomous and pose virtually no threat to humans or pets, as they do not possess venom glands or sting. Their reputation for aggression is unwarranted, as they are non-confrontational and will try to escape when disturbed. The powerful mandibles are capable of inflicting a painful, defensive bite, which occurs only if the insect is handled roughly or trapped. The bite is not medically significant and will not cause lasting harm. They are generally considered beneficial in the garden as they help break down organic material.