IDAHO FALLS – Drivers navigating through the countryside areas of Idaho might encounter an unexpected and slick surprise: large groups of crickets covering the highways this season.
The uncommon natural event, although anticipated during this season, has garnered considerable interest. Numerous individuals have shared recordings and images depicting an invasion of crickets in Dubois and Clark County.
Mormon crickets, despite their name, are not crickets at all but rather a species of large katydid. These insects feed on various plants including shrubs, grasses, fruit trees, grains, and fields. Although they lack flight capability, they can cover extensive areas and grow up to 1.5 to 2 inches in size.
Their name dates back to the time when insects attacked the crops of Mormon settlers in the Salt Lake region during the mid-1800s.
as per information from Washington State University.
RELATED | ‘This is chaos!’ Huge swarms of Mormon crickets flood Clark County and other areas in eastern Idaho.
It’s quite an astonishing view, to put it mildly,” stated Matthew Conde, the public affairs director for AAA Idaho. “However, seeing countless numbers of crickets moving around on the roadway can be somewhat unsettling. The good news is that there are straightforward measures you can take to handle both the swarm and what follows.
To assist motorists in maintaining safety and keeping their vehicles well-maintained, AAA provides these suggestions:
• Get your windshield ready: Prior to leaving, ensure your washer fluid is full and check that your wiper blades are in good shape for clear vision.
· Shield your vehicle’s paintwork: Ensure you clean your car frequently and use wax to safeguard against the corrosiveness of squashed bugs.
Although the periodic swarms of crickets are mostly benign, AAA stresses that being ready and driving carefully can assist in ensuring a safe trip — even when the path forward is crowded with unforeseen six-legged passersby.
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Mormon crickets have infested sections of eastern Idaho. Here’s what you should do to remain safe when driving.
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