Invasion of the Cannibal Crickets: Nevada Residents Trapped in Homes

Nevada residents are confined due to a significant infestation of carnivorous and cannibalistic Mormon crickets swarming homes, lawns, and roads.

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Mormon crickets follow a cyclical pattern, emerging in large numbers during spring and summer, with outbreaks lasting years and triggered by environmental factors.

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This year, the crickets hatched later than usual, reaching maturity in mid-April. They will mate, lay eggs in mid-July, and decline during winter.

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Natural predators like parasites, coyotes, and birds help control the cricket population.

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The last major cycle of Mormon crickets in northern Nevada occurred from 1999 to 2007, with documented infestations since the 1930s.

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The crickets tend to stay north of Highway 50, sparing southern Nevada.

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Treating the crickets with insecticides is challenging due to their mobility, covering a mile per day through hopping and crawling.

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Efforts focus on public safety, protecting water supplies, and maintaining road safety from slick surfaces caused by crushed crickets.

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