Cicadas produce a loud buzzing or clicking sound, often described as a rhythmic, high-pitched whine. Males generate the sound to attract females for mating. The intensity and frequency of the cicada noise can vary depending on the species, temperature, and time of day.

The timing of cicada activity varies depending on the species and location. Cicadas typically emerge during the warmer months between late spring and early summer. Cicada sounds are most commonly heard during the day. Certain species, like periodical cicadas, have synchronized emergence patterns that occur at specific intervals, leading to a massive chorus of cicada sounds.

Example cicada sounds:

 

Why do cicadas make noise?

Cicadas make noises for a few reasons, but the primary reason they make noise is for mating purposes. The loud buzzing or clicking cicada noise is produced by male cicadas as a form of courtship to attract females for mating.

two cicadas together

Cicadas may also produce sounds in response to other stimuli or situations, including:

  1. Defense: Some cicadas may produce warning sounds when they feel threatened or are being attacked by predators.
  2. Aggression: Cicadas may produce aggressive sounds to intimidate rivals in competitive situations.
  3. Communication: Cicadas use sounds to communicate with each other for various purposes, such as signaling alarms or establishing territory.
  4. Species recognition: Cicadas of the same species may use specific cicada sounds to identify and locate each other for mating purposes, helping to ensure successful reproduction.

How do cicadas make noise?

Cicadas produce their loud buzzing or clicking noises through specialized structures called tymbals, which are located on their abdomens. These tymbals are thin, ribbed membranes that are connected to their muscles. When a cicada contracts these muscles, the tymbals buckle inward rapidly, creating a clicking sound.

When the muscles relax, the tymbals return to their original shape, producing another click. By repeating this process rapidly, cicadas create a continuous buzzing or clicking sound.

large cicada group on brick wall

Why are cicadas so loud?

There are a few reasons why cicadas are so loud.

  • Their loud noises are primarily intended to attract mates. Male cicadas produce these sounds to court females, and the loudness helps them overcome background cicada noise in their environment and reach potential mates over long distances.
  • Cicadas often gather in large numbers during mating seasons, which amplifies the overall volume of their calls.
  • Cicadas have evolved to be loud as a survival strategy. Loud cicada sounds can startle or deter predators, making them less likely to be attacked while they are vulnerable during mating rituals.

While their emergence may initially spark curiosity or concern, it's important to recognize that cicadas do not require any form of pest control. They’re typically only around for four to six weeks and do not pose a long-term threat to ecosystems or human activities.