Why Do Crickets Make A Chirping Sound?
Just like many other kinds of unnerving behaviors of creatures in the animal kingdom, crickets chirp as a part of their mating rituals; the male crickets make this sound as they rub the eyes of their wings together. The sound attracts females and can keep rival males away. This process of rubbing wings together has a name, too, and it’s called stridulation. Many common crickets, such as house cricket, make this sound, but some species do not.
But, while the noises crickets make can be frustrating, these pests also cause other issues. Crickets can damage property as they chew through everything from pantry products to papers, cardboard boxes, and clothing. Plus, crickets can also spread a pathogen that leads to sores, although this health risk isn’t deadly.
All The Ways Crickets Can Enter Homes
Crickets are relatively small pests, so that they can find many entry points into buildings. They can slip through small holes in the exterior walls and foundation, sneak through broken screens, or slip under unsealed door and window frames.
Using crickets for feeder insects for reptiles is another common way that cricket infestations start. Sometimes, the crickets escape, and an infestation can occur.
Six Cricket Prevention Tips for McKinney Residents
Because crickets can be invasive, annoying, and complex, taking steps to keep crickets out of your home is a good idea. The McKinney pest control professionals at Big D Pest & Termite Services suggest following these six steps:
- Seal up door and window entrances by fixing broken screens and installing door sweeps and weather stripping.
- Fix holes in the walls and foundation with caulk and foam. Make sure to patch up cracks and crevices as much as possible.
- Reduce food sources by removing pet food from outside the house and storing these items inside instead.
- Keep the pantry and other food items stored in sealed containers.
- Reduce humidity issues by repairing any leaking or broken pipes and faucets. You can also remove standing water from the yard and ensure that rainwater has a path to drain by clearing gutters.
And, for total cricket removal and prevention, contact pest control professionals for help, as DIY cricket control isn't always that effective.
Keeping Crickets Out of Your Home
Already dealing with annoying crickets? If so, call Big D Pest & Termite Services for help. We offer ongoing residential pest control plans that can keep these chirping creatures out year-round. Plus, we can quickly get rid of any existing infestations. Just reach out today to request a quote.