Velarifictorus micado

Velarifictorus micado, also known as the Japanese burrowing cricket, is a species of cricket native to East Asia, particularly Japan. However, it has spread to other parts of the world, including the eastern United States, where it was accidentally introduced in the 1950s. This cricket is relatively small and dark brown, with a shiny, somewhat streamlined body. Males have distinctive, loud calls used to attract mates, especially on warm nights. As a burrowing cricket, V. micado typically lives in soil, where it digs tunnels. In its introduced range, it’s often found in grassy areas, gardens, or fields. The Japanese burrowing cricket is known for its nocturnal calling behavior. Its song is a series of loud, clear chirps that can be easily distinguished from other cricket species. While not typically considered a major pest, its introduction to non-native regions has raised some ecological concerns about competition with local cricket species.