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Central Texans see return of crickets

Posted at 11:00 PM, Sep 17, 2016
and last updated 2016-09-18 12:03:57-04

With the end of summer and start of fall, many Central Texans are seeing a familiar- and perhaps unwelcome sight: crickets.

You can undoubtedly hear them but many people are starting to see large swarms in the area. A hot and dry summer made for a particular lucrative climate for the eggs to hatch. 

According to local entomologist and owner of GGA Pest Control, Fred Huffman, this time of year always brings an increase in the population.

Crickets are attracted to white lights, which is why you may see a lot of them in parking lots or football games.  Huffman said that the best way to disrupt these swarms is to use yellow tinted of sodium vapor lights. 

Huffman says crickets are mostly outdoor creatures, but they can sneak inside. 

"I can't stress enough exclusion finding holes that can be sealed up putting door sweeps indoors not only are you helping keeps the crickets out but helping insulate your home better by doing that," Huffman said. 

Huffman said there is no risk for disease with crickets. The insects do die quickly which can cause a significant odor.

The increase is estimated to last only about two weeks. 

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