Jerusalem cricket bites can be painful, but they are not dangerous. These big bugs look scary, but they do not carry venom or poison. People also call them potato bugs. Even though they have strong jaws and can pinch your skin, their bite usually causes only mild symptoms.
In this blog, we’ll explain what a potato bug bite looks like, how to treat it, and when to see a doctor. We’ll also answer common questions about Jerusalem crickets, including how to get rid of them and what makes them unique.
What Is a Jerusalem Cricket?
A Jerusalem cricket, also called a potato bug, is a large, chunky insect. It has a big round head and a brown body with dark stripes. They do not fly. Most people find them under rocks, in gardens, or in dark, moist places.
Key Features:
- Big, rounded head
- Brown body with black stripes
- No wings
- Long legs for digging
Even though they are called “crickets,” they are not true crickets. And they don’t come from Jerusalem. Yesterday, we published a post on Do Crickets Have Wings: Identification, Behavior & Life Cycle
Do Jerusalem Crickets Bite?
Yes, Jerusalem crickets can bite, but only when they feel scared. They do not chase people or attack for fun.
Here’s what to know:
- They bite when handled roughly
- They prefer to hide instead of fight
- Their bite feels like a sharp pinch
- No poison or venom is in their bite
So, while a potato bug bite might hurt, it won’t make you sick.
What Does a Jerusalem Cricket Bite Look Like?
A Jerusalem cricket bite looks like a red, swollen spot on the skin. It may feel sore for a few hours.
Symptoms:
- Redness around the bite
- Mild swelling
- Itching or burning
- Pinch-like pain
- No spreading or infection unless scratched
Their bite does not cause serious health problems for most people.
How to Treat a Potato Bug Bite
If you or someone gets bitten by a Jerusalem cricket, don’t panic. You can treat it at home in most cases.
Step-by-Step Treatment:
- Wash the area with soap and water
- Apply a cold compress to reduce pain and swelling
- Use anti-itch cream like hydrocortisone if the bite itches
- Don’t scratch the bite to avoid infection
- Watch for signs of infection like pus or spreading redness
Some people also use a paste of baking soda and water to ease swelling and itching. Read more on Can Crickets Fly? All You Need to Know in 2025
Are Potato Bugs Dangerous?
No, potato bugs are not dangerous. They do not have venom. They do not spread disease. Their bite is not harmful unless it gets infected from scratching.
Important Points:
- No stinger
- No poison
- Not aggressive
- Just scary-looking
You don’t need to worry if you see one. Just don’t pick it up with your bare hands.
How to Get Rid of Jerusalem Crickets
If you keep seeing these bugs in or around your home, here are some simple steps to remove them:
Ways to Keep Them Away:
- Seal cracks in your home’s walls or floors
- Keep outdoor lights off at night (they’re drawn to light)
- Remove piles of wood, stones, and leaves
- Fix any leaks or damp spots
- Keep your home clean and dry
You can also use safe bug sprays or contact a pest control expert if they become a problem.
5 Interesting Facts About Jerusalem Crickets
- They do not chirp like other crickets.
- They dig underground using their strong legs.
- They eat roots, decaying plants, and small bugs.
- They live mostly at night.
- They can grow up to 2 inches long!
Final Thoughts
Jerusalem crickets, or potato bugs, can bite—but their bite is not dangerous. If you see one, it’s best to leave it alone. If it bites, clean the area well, treat any pain or itch, and avoid scratching. They are not venomous and don’t spread disease. These bugs just look scary, but they are mostly harmless. Follow Us on Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter for the latest updates.
Jerusalem Cricket Bite General FAQs
How do you treat a Jerusalem cricket bite?
Wash with soap and water, apply cold compress, and use anti-itch cream.
How to treat a cricket bite?
Clean the area and use a cold compress. Watch for signs of infection.
What is the life cycle of the Jerusalem cricket?
Egg → Nymph → Adult. They molt several times before becoming adults.
How to get rid of Jerusalem crickets?
Seal your home, reduce outdoor clutter, and fix damp areas.
What is the best way to treat crickets?
Use natural repellents or bug sprays. Keep your home clean.
What does a cricket bite look like?
It looks like a red bump with some swelling or a small sore spot.
What are the symptoms of crickets?
Crickets don’t cause symptoms unless they bite. Then it may hurt or itch.
Do crickets carry diseases to humans?
No, Jerusalem crickets do not spread diseases.
Do crickets lay eggs?
Yes, they lay eggs in the soil.
What are 5 interesting facts about crickets?
They don’t chirp, live underground, eat roots, grow big, and stay hidden.
How fast do crickets multiply?
They can lay many eggs, but they reproduce slowly compared to other bugs.
How long do crickets live?
They usually live for 1 to 2 years, depending on the weather and habitat.
