Pronunciation: [dˈɒɡ dˈe͡ɪ sˈɪkɐdˌiː] (IPA) 
Dog day cicadae is a species of cicada. The correct spelling is "dog day cicada", but it is common to add an "e" at the end of the word "cicada" to make it plural. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /dɔːɡ deɪ sɪˈkeɪdə/. The first part, "dog day", is pronounced as "dawg day" with a long "o" sound. The second part, "cicada", is pronounced as "sih-KAY-duh" with the stress on the second syllable.
Dog day cicadas, also known as annual cicadas or dog-day harvest flies, are a group of related species of insects belonging to the family Cicadidae. They are widely distributed across North America and are characterized by their distinct buzzing or humming sound, which is produced by the males as a mating call during the hot summer months.
These cicadas are commonly referred to as dog day cicadas due to their occurrence during the "dog days" of summer, which typically fall between July and August in the Northern Hemisphere. They are often associated with sweltering heat and drought conditions, as their emergence coincides with the hottest and driest months of the year.
Dog day cicadas have a unique life cycle that spans multiple years. The insects spend most of their life underground as nymphs, feeding on plant roots and undergoing several molts before emerging as ad ults. Their emergence is synchronized, resulting in large numbers of cicadas appearing simultaneously, creating a chorus of buzzing sounds in the trees.
As adults, dog day cicadas have clear or brownish wings with large bulging eyes and elongated bodies. They are usually characterized by their green or brown coloration, blending in with their natural habitats. These insects are harmless to humans, primarily feeding on tree sap and plant fluids.
Dog day cicadas play a vital role in their ecosystems by aerating the soil as nymphs and acting as a food source for birds and other animals once they reach adulthood. While their loud buzzing can be a nuisance for some, their presence is a sign of the sweltering summer season and the beauty of nature's cycle of life.
