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European Mole Cricket

Gryllotalpa gryllotalpa

UncommonInsect & Arthropod
Illustration of European Mole Cricket (Gryllotalpa gryllotalpa)

The European Mole Cricket is an introduced species in parts of North America, with powerful, velvety forelegs perfectly adapted for digging that give it a mole-like appearance. Its song, produced from a specially designed burrow entrance that acts as an acoustic horn, can be heard up to half a mile away. Despite its fearsome appearance it is harmless to humans.

Habitat
Moist soils of gardens, lawns, and fields
Diet
Adults and nymphs: roots, invertebrates, and organic soil matter
How common
Uncommon

Best time to see a European Mole Cricket

The best time to see a European Mole Cricket is April–June, when about 66% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 184 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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Recent European Mole Cricket sightings near you

Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.

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