Crickets are small, chirping insects found all over the world, but are they in Australia? Yes, Australia is home to many species of crickets! These fascinating creatures are more than just background noise on warm nights—they play an important role in the environment. Whether you’ve seen them hopping in your garden, heard their nighttime songs, or wondered if they’re a problem for homes, this article will answer all your questions.
Let’s dive deep into the world of Australian crickets and explore their habitat, diet, sounds, and role in nature.
What Kind of Crickets Live in Australia?
Australia is home to many species of crickets, ranging from common house crickets to unique bush crickets. Some of the most well-known crickets found in Australia include:
- Black Field Cricket (Teleogryllus commodus) – One of the most common crickets in Australia, found in gardens, fields, and even inside houses.
- House Cricket (Acheta domesticus) – These crickets are often found in warm indoor spaces and are sometimes used as pet food.
- King Cricket (Anostostomatidae family) – These large, flightless crickets are found in Australia and New Zealand. They are unique due to their heavy bodies and lack of wings.
- Raspy Crickets (Gryllacrididae family) – These crickets do not chirp like regular crickets but instead make a raspy sound.
There are over 100 species of crickets in Australia, and they can be found in various environments across the country.
Where Do Crickets Like to Live?
Crickets in Australia thrive in many different environments. They are adaptable insects, which means they can live in various places, depending on their species. Some prefer dry, open fields, while others live in forests or even inside homes. Here are some common places where you might find them:
- Gardens and Lawns – Many crickets live in gardens, hiding under leaves and grass.
- Forests and Bushlands – Some species prefer dense vegetation and fallen logs.
- Underground Burrows – Some crickets dig burrows in the soil to stay safe.
- Inside Homes and Buildings – House crickets love warm, indoor spaces, especially in colder months.
What Do Australian Crickets Eat?
Crickets are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and small insects. Their diet depends on their environment, but common food sources include:
- Leaves, Grass, and Flowers – Many crickets feed on plants, helping to break down dead vegetation.
- Fruits and Vegetables – Some crickets eat decaying fruits and vegetables.
- Dead Insects – They also eat small insects and dead bugs, acting as natural recyclers.
- Fabric and Paper (Indoors) – House crickets sometimes chew on paper, fabrics, and even wallpaper glue when inside homes.
Crickets play a crucial role in the ecosystem by decomposing organic material and controlling insect populations.
Do Crickets Help the Environment?
Yes! Crickets are beneficial insects that help maintain the balance of ecosystems. They:
- Break Down Organic Matter – Crickets help decompose dead plants and animals, recycling nutrients into the soil.
- Provide Food for Other Animals – Many birds, reptiles, and small mammals eat crickets.
- Control Pest Populations – Some crickets eat other insects, helping to keep pest numbers in check.
Although crickets can sometimes be a nuisance indoors, they play an essential role in nature.
Can You Keep a Cricket as a Pet?
Yes! Many people keep crickets as pets, especially in Australia, where they are easy to find. Keeping crickets as pets is simple because they require minimal care. If you plan to keep one, here’s what you’ll need:
- A ventilated container – A plastic or glass container with air holes works best.
- Food and Water – Fresh fruits, vegetables, and cricket food will keep them healthy. A small sponge soaked in water prevents drowning.
- A warm environment – Crickets thrive in temperatures between 25-30°C (77-86°F).
Crickets are also commonly kept as food for pet reptiles and amphibians.
Do Crickets Bite Humans?
No, crickets are not aggressive and do not bite humans. While they do have small jaws, their bites are harmless and extremely rare. Most crickets prefer to hop away rather than interact with people. However, if handled roughly, a cricket might nibble on your skin, but it won’t cause any harm.
Why Do Crickets Make Chirping Sounds?
Crickets chirp as a way to communicate. Male crickets create their signature sounds by rubbing their wings together, a behavior called stridulation. There are different reasons why crickets chirp:
- To Attract a Mate – Male crickets sing to attract females.
- To Warn Other Males – Some chirps serve as warnings to other males to stay away.
- To Express Distress – Crickets sometimes chirp when they feel threatened.
Interestingly, crickets chirp more in warm weather because their metabolism speeds up in higher temperatures.
Are Crickets Found Everywhere in Australia?
Crickets can be found in almost every part of Australia, from coastal cities to remote outback areas. However, their populations vary depending on climate and habitat. You’re more likely to find crickets in warm, humid regions, as they thrive in such conditions.
Do Crickets Come Inside Houses?
Yes, crickets sometimes enter homes, especially during colder months when they seek warmth. House crickets and black field crickets are the most common indoor visitors. They are attracted to bright lights, warmth, and food sources like fabric and paper.
How Can You Keep Crickets Out?
If crickets become a nuisance inside your home, you can take these steps to keep them out:
- Seal Cracks and Gaps – Block entry points around doors and windows.
- Reduce Outdoor Lighting – Crickets are attracted to bright lights, so use dim or yellow lights.
- Keep Your Home Clean – Remove food crumbs, clutter, and damp areas where crickets can hide.
- Use Natural Repellents – Diatomaceous earth, essential oils (like peppermint), and sticky traps can help.
Are Crickets Harmful to Gardens?
Crickets are generally harmless to gardens, but in large numbers, they may chew on plant leaves and flowers. While they don’t usually cause severe damage, a cricket infestation could lead to some plant loss. Beneficial insects like spiders and birds help control cricket populations naturally.
Fun Cricket Facts You Didn’t Know!
Here are some fascinating facts about crickets:
- Crickets have ears on their front legs!
- The temperature affects their chirping speed—more chirps mean warmer weather.
- Some cultures consider crickets lucky and keep them as pets.
- Crickets have been around for over 200 million years!
- They can jump up to 20 times their body length.
Are There Crickets in Australia?
Yes, Australia is home to a wide variety of crickets, from small house crickets to large bush crickets. They can be found in gardens, forests, and even inside homes. While some people find them annoying, crickets play an essential role in nature by recycling nutrients and serving as food for other animals.
The Bottom Line
Crickets are fascinating insects that are very much a part of Australian wildlife. Whether you hear them chirping at night, see them hopping in your garden, or find one inside your home, they are an important part of the ecosystem. While they may be a minor nuisance indoors, they provide many benefits to the environment. If you ever spot a cricket in Australia, you now know just how amazing these little creatures are!
