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Got a Cell Phone? Use It to HelpTrack Crickets in NYC

by Caleb Johnson on September 7, 2009 at 05:16 PM


Scientists in New York City are asking all folks with a cell phone and a sharp ear to take part in an interesting, and some might say disgusting, survey. According to Wired, it's called the 'NYC Cricket Crawl,' and the goal is to get an idea of just how many crickets and katydids still live in the city. At least it's not a sewer rat survey, right?

The 'Cricket Crawl' is quick, simple, and best of all, doesn't cost a dime. Here's how it works: step outside your place in NYC on September 11th sometime between sunset and midnight, stay really quiet, and listen hard for the chirp of a cricket or katydid. Then let the scientists know what you heard one of two ways: ID the cricket yourself (after learning the different types of calls), and phone or text the results; or record the sounds with a phone or camera, and e-mail the files to the scientists.

With the help of these insect enthusiasts, scientists hope to discover that the Common True Katydid, which once thrived in NYC, still makes its home in the city. Whatever the results, the 'Cricket Crawl' could provide a model for future surveys. Grassroots work that takes advantage of cheap technology eases the financial burden, and these days, that counts for a whole lot. [From: Wired]

Tags: cellphone, cricket, insects, nature, science, survey, top

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