There’s no mistaking the sound of summer in full swing: a high-pitched, droning chorus echoing through the trees. That’s the unmistakable cry of the cicada, a bug so extra it spends most of its life underground, only to emerge for one loud, love-fueled party in the sun.
What’s a Cicada?
Cicadas are part of the superfamily Cicadoidea, a group of flying insects known for their massive eyes, see-through wings, and ear-splitting songs. They range from chunky, thumb-sized giants to tiny singers no bigger than your pinky nail. Some species emerge every year, while others like the famous periodical cicadas, burst from the ground only once every 13 or 17 years.
The Soundtrack of Summer
Only male cicadas sing, and boy, do they go for it. They use special organs called tymbals on their abdomens to produce their buzz, clicks, and droning calls. Each species has its own unique song, and when thousands emerge at once, it’s like an insect boy band reunion tour. The goal? Attract a mate before their brief time above ground is up.
Fun Fact: The Ultimate Power Nap
Some cicadas stay underground as nymphs for more than a decade, sipping tree sap from roots and biding their time. When the temperature and soil moisture are just right, they emerge in massive, synchronized waves, shedding their skins and heading straight for the treetops.
Where to Spot Them
Cicadas love hot, sunny days and are usually found in trees, shrubs, and gardens during summer months. You’ll hear them long before you see them. Look for their shed exoskeletons clinging to bark or porch screens; evidence of a recent molt.
Why They’re Cool
Cicadas are living time capsules. Some emerge in broods that haven’t been seen for nearly two decades. Their emergence supports entire food chains (they’re a buffet for birds, mammals, and even people in some cultures!), and their songs are loud enough to register on sound meters. They’re weird, wonderful, and unforgettable.