AUSTIN (KXAN) — As fall arrives, Central Texas residents can expect the return of various insects, including crickets and butterflies, according to Wizzie Brown from the Texas A&M Entomology Department.
Crickets, particularly large black field crickets, are common nuisances during late summer into fall, Brown said, often appearing around town. Meanwhile, butterflies, including monarchs, become more active as they migrate south.
Brown, who is a senior extension program specialist at the university, noted that crickets not only can be a nuisance, but can also create bad odors as “they can be really, really stinky if they die right outside the door.”
Crickets can be particularly bothersome as they tend to gather near lit areas at night. Brown suggested turning off lights to reduce their presence around doors and windows.
The weather plays a significant role in insect activity. While recent dry and hot conditions have reduced some insect populations, rain and cooler temperatures could lead to a resurgence.
Insects can be beneficial, serving as decomposers or pollinators. Brown highlighted the importance of nectar plants for supporting butterfly migration, recommending planting fall-blooming flowers.
With the changing season, residents are encouraged to prepare for the influx of insects by managing lighting and planting nectar-rich flowers to support migrating butterflies.
All facts from this article were gathered by KXAN journalists. This article was converted into this format with assistance from artificial intelligence. It has been edited and approved by KXAN staff. Read about our approach to using AI tools.
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