Gryllus veletis, commonly known as the spring field cricket, is abundant throughout eastern North America.
This species is commonly confused with Gryllus pennsylvanicus (fall field cricket), as they inhabit the same geographical area.
However, the two species are easily distinguished through examination of life history, ovipositor and behavioural differences.
[1] Predators of G. veletis include American toads, wild turkeys, red-tailed hawks, wolf spiders and red-backed salamanders.
[1] Females are similar in colour and have a dark brown ovipositor, measuring approximately 14 mm (0.55 inches).
[1] All species of field crickets generally look similar, with minor distinctions in morphological characteristics (i.e. coloration, ovipositor length, etc.)
[12] The immature spring field cricket will continue to develop into a late-instar nymph and overwinter in this stage until emergence as adults in late May.
Consumption of plant matter helps ensure that fallen leaves and other material does not accumulate.
decomposition of plants into fertile soil helps maintain a balanced ecosystem in forests and fields.