A dog day cicada, also known as Tibicen tibicen, is a type of large insect belonging to the family Cicadidae. It is commonly found in North America and is particularly active during the warm summer months, hence the name "dog day" cicada.
The dog day cicada is characterized by its robust body, large size, and strikingly bright eyes. It typically measures around 1.5 to 2 inches in length and has a wingspan of 3 to 4 inches. Its body is primarily black or brown with sometimes yellowish or greenish markings. The wings of the dog day cicada are transparent and intricately veined.
These cicadas are known for their distinct buzzing or droning sound, which serves as a male's mating call. The sound is produced by specialized organs called tymbals located on the abdomen. Males emit this sound to attract females for mating purposes. The dog day cicada's song is often perceived as a quintessential sound of summer.
Dog day cicadas spend a significant portion of their life underground as nymphs feeding on sap from tree roots. They undergo several molts before eventually emerging from the ground as adults. Once above ground, dog day cicadas have a relatively short lifespan which typically lasts around a month. During this time, they mate, lay eggs, and complete their life cycle.
These cicadas are known to inhabit a variety of habitats, including forests, parks, and suburban areas. While they are generally harmless to humans, their sheer abundance and loud sounds can sometimes be a nuisance. Nevertheless, dog day cicadas play an important ecological role as they contribute to nutrient cycling and serve as a food source for various predators.
