Stone crickets are robust, ground-dwelling insects closely related to Jerusalem crickets and camel crickets. As their name implies, they are most commonly found sheltering under rocks, flagstones, concrete slabs, and debris piles in Arizona's desert and foothill habitats. They are nocturnal omnivores that feed on plant material, fungi, and small invertebrates. Stone crickets are not true household pests but are frequently disturbed during landscaping, rock removal, and garden work. They can enter structures through gaps in the foundation and are occasionally found in garages and storage areas. Their large size and sudden movement when uncovered can be startling, but they pose no medical threat and cause minimal damage inside structures.
👁Warning Signs
Large, robust insects found under rocks, pavers, or debris when disturbed. Occasional sightings in garages or storage areas. No chirping sound.
⚠Health & Property Risks
No medical risk. Minimal damage potential. Nuisance pest when encountered during landscaping.
Prevention Tips
Remove rock piles and debris near the foundation. Seal gaps under doors and around the foundation. Reduce moisture from irrigation near the structure.
🛡Professional Treatment
Exclusion and habitat modification are sufficient. Perimeter residual treatments can reduce encounters near structures.
Frequently Asked Questions — Stone Cricket
The Stone Cricket (Stenopelmatus spp. (related)) is brown to dark brown and typically measures ¾–1½ inches. Stone crickets are robust, ground-dwelling insects closely related to Jerusalem crickets and camel crickets. As their name implies, they are most commonly found sheltering under rocks, flagstones, con.
The Stone Cricket is generally low-risk, but caution is still advised. No medical risk. Minimal damage potential. Nuisance pest when encountered during landscaping.
In Arizona, stone crickets are most often encountered in the following situations: Large, robust insects found under rocks, pavers, or debris when disturbed. Occasional sightings in garages or storage areas. No chirping sound.
The Stone Cricket is most active during: Year-round; most active in warmer months. Arizona's warm desert climate can extend activity periods compared to other states, so year-round vigilance is recommended in the Phoenix metro and surrounding areas.
Remove rock piles and debris near the foundation. Seal gaps under doors and around the foundation. Reduce moisture from irrigation near the structure.
Exclusion and habitat modification are sufficient. Perimeter residual treatments can reduce encounters near structures.
Male crickets produce their characteristic chirp by rubbing their wings together (stridulation) to attract mates. Reducing outdoor lighting (which attracts crickets), sealing entry points, and eliminating harborage areas near the home are the most effective ways to reduce noise. Pest Control Bros can treat perimeter areas to significantly lower cricket populations.
Dealing with Stone Cricket?
Pest Control Bros LLC serves Maricopa, Chandler, Casa Grande, Tempe, Gilbert, and Mesa. No contracts. Free inspections. Same-week service.
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