The Jerusalem Cricket (Stenopelmatus fuscus), or Cara de niño in Spanish, is native to southern California and is sometimes called a “potato bug.” It is a non-venomous, orange and black-banded insect that prefers dark, moist soil gardens.

It’s unlikely you will find one in your home, but if you do it’s likely because outside is a hot and dry day and the Jerusalem cricket is looking to escape the heat. They spend most of their life underground feeding on living and dead plant materials and produce a sound called “drumming” by hitting their spiny legs against their body.

Learn more about the Jerusalem Cricket at the Bug Guide.

PHOTO CREDIT: Wayne P. Armstrong