The Natural History of Selborne

Field-crickets have opened their holes: they are full-grown, but have only the rudiments of wings, & are probably in their larva state; yet they certainly eat, as appears by their dung.  It seems likely that they die every winter, leaving eggs behind them.  About Septemr all the mouths of their holes are obliterated.  They do not cry ’til about the middle of May.  Their noise is shrill & loud.  This is by no means a common insect.  They probably cast another coat before their wings are perfect, & they capable of shrilling.