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Gryllus veletis, commonly known as the Spring field cricket, is abundant throughout eastern North America. G. veletis is a solitary, aggressive, burrow-inhabiting species of Field Cricket. This species is commonly confused with Gryllus pennsylvanicus (Fall Field Cricket), as they inhabit the same geographical area. However, the two species are easily distinguished through examination of life history, ovipositor and behavioural differences.

Identification
Adult body length measures approximately 22.0 mm (0.87 inches). Males of this species are black with dark brown or black appendages. Females are similar in colour and have a dark brown ovipositor, measuring approximately 14mm (0.55 inches). Females differ from male colour as they have lighter, more reddish legs.

Distribution
Gryllus veletis is abundant throughout eastern North America. It ranges from southern Canada to northern Georgia, and as far west as Washington and Oregon. G. veletis occurs in the same areas as G. pennsylvanicus but the Spring Field Cricket does not reach as far north as Nova Scotia, Canada. G. veletis can be found in disturbed habitats such as old fields, and weedy roadsides.

Life Cycle and Mating Behaviour
Spring field crickets are sexually mature from late May to early August. Males of the species attract sexually receptive females by acoustic signals, known as stridulation. Calling tends to peak at sunrise and lasts between 1.3 to 1.8 hours per night. However, if nighttime temperatures drop below 10 C (50F), calling will switch to the daytime. At 29C (85F), the cricket will call at 120-370 chirps per minute, in a series of 3- to 5-pulse chirps. When a female is within the vicinity of a male’s territory, a quieter song (known as a courtship song) is used to reduce the risk of predation and attraction of male competitors.

Once mating occurs, females lay eggs, which mature between June and September. The Spring Field Cricket will continue to develop into late-instar nymphs and overwinter in this stage until emergence as adults in late May. G. veletis therefore undergoes one generation per year.