Field Crickets (Gryllus pennsylvanicus) are found throughout North America. They appear in the late summer and early fall -- frequenting fields, forests, basements and garages.
The chirping sound is made by the males to attract females. Females hear the sound through "eardrums" on their legs.
Field Crickets have two cerci ("spikes") coming out of the back of their abdomens. Females also have a longer central spike -- an ovipositor.
Eggs are laid by the female. They overwinter and hatch in the spring. Adults do not survive the winter.
House Crickets, while similar in appearance to Field Crickets, have brown bodies and wings that extend past the abdomen.
