Elko, Nevada, a charming town of about 20,000 residents, is currently facing a massive invasion of Mormon crickets. The population of these migratory insects is so overwhelming that the Department of Transportation has resorted to using plows to clear the roads of the squashed bug bodies. Recent photos shared on the DOT’s Twitter account showcase the grim aftermath, with roads covered in guts and an urgent warning for drivers to proceed with caution. The New York Times even reports that the decaying carcasses emit a foul odor similar to fish or dog feces, which is enough to repulse most creatures, but not these resilient katydids masquerading as crickets.
Aside from their foul odor, these cannibalistic bugs have been wreaking havoc by devouring landscaping and crops. NBC News even highlights the fact that they feast on the carcasses of their own kind. It seems there’s no limit to their appetite.
But why is this happening now? The University of Nevada-Reno explains that drought conditions tend to encourage Mormon cricket outbreaks, which can persist for several years, historically ranging from 5 to 21 years. According to the Idaho Statesman, their populations surge every 15 to 20 years, adding to the terror experienced by the locals in Elko and the surrounding towns.
Some of the firsthand accounts are nothing short of horrifying. Staff at the Shilo Inns Elko decided to combat the infestation by using pressure washers and concocting a steaming mixture of water, vinegar, bleach, and dish soap to repel the bugs. A homeowner’s viral TikTok video shows her bug-covered house and describes it as the most disgusting day of her life. Her husband’s attempts to use a leaf blower have been futile, and the insects continue to dominate their property.
Even Northeastern Nevada Regional Hospital faced difficulties due to the infestation. Hospital staff had to resort to leaf blowers, brooms, and even a tractor with a snowplow to clear the pathways for patients. Elko resident Precious Drake describes the situation succinctly, stating, “They’re just gross. They look like spiders, and they poop everywhere.”
The invasion of the Mormon crickets has certainly made its mark on Elko, leaving the residents in a state of disgust, despair, and desperation. It’s a phenomenon that reminds us of the unpredictable power of nature and the resilience of these unwelcome guests. It remains to be seen how long the invasion will last and what further measures will need to be taken to rid the town of these creepy crawlers.
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