What is a Cicada?
Name: Cicada
Scientific Name: Cicadoidea
Type: Invertebrates
Diet: Herbavore
Group Name: Cloud, plague
Average life span: up to 17 years
Size: 0.75-2.25
Cicada Quick Facts
- Cicadas characteristically have short antennae, two pairs of transparent membranous wings, prominent compound eyes, and three simple eyes (ocelli) that form a triangle between the compound eyes.
- Annual cicadas are seen every summer and have a lifespan of roughly 2-5 years.
- Periodical cicadas are among the longest-lived insects on the planet, living for 13 or 17 years. They spend the vast majority of that time living underground, feeding on tree roots.
- Although cicadas do not pose a threat to humans or pets, they will be heard. It may get loud depending on the geographic location and the number of cicadas around. According to the National Institutes of Health, calls of male cicadas can reach over 90 decibels, which is as loud as a lawnmower, motorcycle, or tractor.