Mole Crickets: How to Identify & Treat Them in Sarasota and Manatee Counties
Mole crickets are a serious threat to lawns in Sarasota and Manatee counties. These underground pests tunnel beneath the soil, feeding on grass roots and causing significant turf damage. If left untreated, mole crickets can turn a lush, green lawn into a patchy, brown mess. At Westfall’s Lawn & Pest Control, we specialize in identifying and eliminating mole crickets to keep your lawn healthy and beautiful.
What Are Mole Crickets?
Mole crickets are unique insects that live underground and damage lawns by burrowing through the soil. They have large, shovel-like front legs designed for digging, making them highly effective at tunneling. Unlike other common lawn pests, mole crickets do not just feed on grass—they also disturb the soil structure, leading to widespread turf damage.
In Sarasota and Manatee counties, the most common species include the tawny mole cricket and southern mole cricket. These pests thrive in Florida’s warm, sandy soil and can be especially destructive in the late summer and early fall when their populations peak.
Signs of a Mole Cricket Infestation
Mole crickets can be difficult to spot because they spend most of their lives underground. However, some signs indicate their presence, including:
• Brown, thinning patches of grass – Damage appears in irregular patterns as mole crickets feed on the roots.
• Spongy or uneven turf – Their tunneling disturbs the soil, making the ground feel soft or lumpy.
• Small mounds of soil – As they burrow, mole crickets push dirt to the surface.
• Increased bird or animal activity – Birds, raccoons, and other predators dig into the lawn searching for mole crickets.
How to Treat Mole Crickets
Mole cricket control requires a combination of proper timing, the right treatment methods, and ongoing lawn maintenance. Here’s how Westfall’s Lawn & Pest Control tackles mole cricket infestations:
1. Inspection & Identification
Before applying treatments, we conduct a thorough lawn inspection to confirm mole cricket activity. One simple test involves pouring a mixture of soapy water onto the lawn—if mole crickets are present, they will quickly surface.
2. Targeted Insecticide Treatments
The best way to eliminate mole crickets is with professional-grade insecticides. We apply granular and liquid insecticides to target nymphs and adults at the right time of year. The most effective treatments are applied in late spring to early summer when mole crickets are young and easier to control.
3. Lawn Care & Prevention
Healthy lawns are more resistant to mole cricket damage. We recommend:
• Proper mowing and watering – Keeping grass at the right height and avoiding overwatering can reduce damage.
• Aeration and soil care – Aerating compacted soil encourages strong root growth, making it harder for mole crickets to cause severe damage.
• Regular pest monitoring – Scheduling routine lawn inspections ensures mole crickets don’t return.
Why Choose Westfall’s Lawn & Pest Control?
At Westfall’s Lawn & Pest Control, we have the expertise to identify and eliminate mole cricket infestations quickly and effectively. Our customized treatment plans are designed to protect your lawn year-round, ensuring long-term results.
If you suspect mole crickets are damaging your lawn in Sarasota or Manatee County, don’t wait—contact Westfall’s Lawn & Pest Control today! Let us restore your lawn and keep it pest-free.