Invasion of the House Crickets (Acheta domestica)

Observation: Where are these house crickets coming from? We have had our share of pests in the past 17 years we have lived in this house. For example, woodpeckers, squirrels, shrews and mice to name a few, but, never crickets. In fact I don't recall ever seeing grasshoppers or crickets (inside or out) during my entire childhood in Anchorage. Now we have both, and this fall they invaded our house. The incessant chirping made our nights like a trip to the bayou. The chirping has finally stopped (I swatted and shop-vac’ed a few - perhaps the males?), but, the crickets are still here silent and only visible when they emerge to hop cross the room. I hope they are not here to stay. I am preparing for the ground war. My question is whether this is an invasive that may have coming in a box or shipment, a new arrival to Alaska (affecting other homes as well) or perhaps something introduced by my children and the menagerie of pets that have passed through our home. I know crickets were at one point on the menu for a pet gecko. But that was some time ago.

Cooperative Extension Service Consult: Jessie Moan, Statewide IPM Technician write, "This is interesting. Usually cricket infestations in homes are the result of people bringing in feeder crickets and some of them escaping. I don't think I've heard of an infestation coming in from outside (not that it doesn't or hasn't happened). House crickets aren't native in Alaska and aren't thought to be able to survive winter without seeking refuge in buildings. Crickets in homes are usually not causing damage; however, they can be quite a nuisance because of their chirping. This information from the University of Minnesota Extension provides some great tips on how to manage a cricket problem indoors." (University of Alaska Fairbanks)