The Basement Jumper: Camel Crickets (Sprickets)
Terrified of the spider-cricket jumping in your basement? Learn why Sprickets invade damp homes and how to use the 'bread trick' on glue traps.
Camel Crickets, often called "Sprickets" (spider-crickets) due to their humped backs and long legs, are a common source of panic in basements and crawlspaces, particularly in the Eastern United States.
They are distinct from field crickets: they do not chirp, they are light brown or spotted, and they have massive hind legs designed for jumping.
Behavior and Defense
The primary reason homeowners fear these crickets is their erratic jumping behavior. Camel Crickets have poor eyesight and rely on sensing vibrations. When startled by footsteps or a light, their defense mechanism triggers a high, powerful jump.
Because they often congregate in corners, they frequently jump toward the person startling them simply because there is nowhere else to go. Despite this aggressive appearance, they do not bite and have no fangs capable of piercing human skin. They are technically harmless, though they can be a nuisance by chewing on fabrics, cardboard, or wallpaper glue.
Managing the Environment
Camel Crickets are moisture-dependent. Their presence is usually a sign that a basement or crawlspace is too damp. Using a dehumidifier to lower the humidity makes the environment inhospitable for them.
The Glue Trap Strategy
Since they jump unpredictably, swatting them is difficult. The most efficient way to clear a basement is using sticky traps (glue boards).
- Placement: Set boards flat against the walls in corners or near garage doors.
- Baiting: A small piece of damp bread or a cracker placed in the center of the glue trap increases effectiveness significantly.
It is worth noting that Camel Crickets are cannibalistic. Once one cricket is trapped, others are often attracted to feed on it, leading to a compounding effect that can clear a room relatively quickly.