Jerusalem crickets are large, chunky insects that spend most of their time concealed under objects or under ground. One of their diverse genera, Ammopelmatus, (unique to the western US and Mexico), is currently known to contain well over 20 species. Among their common names in Mexico is Niño de la Tierra, or “Child of the Earth.” The heavy, spiked legs visible in this image are adapted for digging. The huge head houses powerful musculature that enables a very strong bite. Jerusalem crickets drum their abdomens on the ground to attract mates. They leave distinctive tracks on dusty roadways that show drag marks left by their heavy abdomens. And yes, the “I look like a big, striped, stinging insect” is a great example of aposematic coloring.