“Mock Crickets” are so odd looking that many people may not recognize them as crickets. None of these crickets have significantly developed wings, they are all silent and are unable to chirp.
- Cave crickets are found in small caves and rock piles in the desert.
- Camel crickets are humpbacked with long antennae.
- The Mole crickets are found underground and are most often encountered when digging. These crickets seem to frighten people, and we often tell of “old wives tales” about them.
One more “mock cricket” should also receive a mention here. Several times a year, a homeowner will report hearing a chirping cricket, but will not be able to find any insects. Upon professional evaluation, a smoke detector is the culprit, chirping to alert that the battery power is low.