Maxentius pallidus (Cape/Pale Sand Cricket)

This cricket-like insect has a large, very rotund (plump) body – length 30mm. It can easily be identified from its cream, with black banded abdomen, honey-coloured head, thorax and legs, and 4-segmented tarsi (the tarsi comprise the foot or contact surface of the leg).  The large head bears robust jaws which is crucial when it is feeding on dead plant matter, as well as worms and insects.   

It reportedly rubs its hind legs against its body to generate sounds.  Emerges at night and climbs vegetation. 

Habitat

As with other members of Sia, it constructs burrows in fairly dry sandy soil and can also be found under rocks and logs.