Sin City plagued by biblical-sized problem: ‘Cannibal’ crickets terrorize.

Millions of Invasive and Cannibalistic Insects Descend on Northern Nevada

Communities in northern Nevada are currently facing a nightmarish invasion of invasive and cannibalistic insects. The severity of the situation has been compared to a “nightmare of Biblical proportions” by USA Today reporter Natalie Alund.

The town of Elko, Nevada, is currently the primary target of these bugs, known as “Mormon crickets.” The infestation has reached such alarming levels that residents are being forced to stay indoors.

Went to Elko, Nevada to cover the Mormon cricket infestation currently happening there. This was a regular occurrence. Constantly looking down as I felt giant bugs crawling on me. The bottom of my shoes are also covered with big guts. I should ask for a raise, right? pic.twitter.com/lUgiJUxiPh

— Lincoln Graves (@LincolnGraves) June 15, 2023

At the doctor for a kiddo appt. It’s a mormon cricket invasion
pic.twitter.com/XKtEskhRhF

— Rebecca Mildren (@rebecca_mildren) June 7, 2023

According to the University of Nevada, Reno, these insects are not actually crickets. They are flightless, ground-dwelling insects native to the western United States. While they primarily feed on grasses, shrubs, and cultivated forage crops, they are also known to resort to cannibalism when other food sources are scarce.

This infestation has had adverse effects on livestock, as the insects deplete grazing areas. Additionally, their feeding habits can contribute to soil erosion, poor water quality, and nutrient-depleted soils.

The bugs have descended on communities in the millions since emerging from dormancy, making life extremely difficult for residents across the region.

A rancher named Skye Krebs described a previous infestation in 2017, which was reported to be the most severe since the 1940s. Krebs referred to the invasion as “truly biblical” and highlighted the dangers posed by these two-inch cannibals.

Their presence on highways has led to hazardous road conditions and numerous car accidents due to their greasy insides.

Residents are seeking refuge indoors to escape the nuisance caused by these bugs. One TikTok user, Colette Reynolds, shared a video showcasing her personal experience with the infestation.

@auntie_coolette♬ original sound – Colette Reynolds

She revealed the gruesome behavior of these insects, explaining that when one is killed, the living ones turn back to devour their fallen comrades.

Residents currently dealing with the infestation are encouraged to be patient until the bugs go dormant again. Jeff Knight from the Nevada Department of Agriculture assured that the bugs will move on from their current locations within a few days.

Despite the overwhelming population, Knight emphasized that the infestation will eventually subside. The bugs may be causing a terrifying problem, but relief is on the horizon.

The post Near Sin City A Plague of ‘Cannibal’ Crickets Is Causing a Terrifying Problem of Biblical Proportion appeared first on The Western Journal.