Southern Wood Cricket, Gryllus fultoni (Alexander) (Insecta: Orthoptera: Gryllidae)

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids, and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This document provides an in-depth profile of the southern wood cricket, Gryllus fultoni, detailing its distribution, identification, life cycle, habitat, and song. Found throughout the southeastern US, this cricket is distinguished by its unique forewing patterns and stridulatory file. It overwinters as a juvenile and matures in spring, inhabiting various forest types. The calling song consists of fast-pulsed chirps. The article includes figures and references for further study, making it a valuable resource for both laypersons and academic audiences interested in entomology. Published: January 1999.