Nevada City Overrun by Smelly Cannibalistic Crickets.

Millions of Mormon crickets, ground-dwelling insects native to the Western United States, have infested Elko, Nevada, causing damage to crops, soil erosion, and substantial economic losses. The crickets, which are not actually crickets but shield-backed katydids, have been surging in population since the 1990s, particularly in Nevada. Chemical deterrents do not work, and the best pest control measure is to place smooth plastic fencing around gardens. The crickets are turning homes, lawns, and sidewalks a darker shade of russet, and their remains stink like fish or dog feces.