Many first-time visitors think the world is ending when cicadas take over

When summer rolls around in Australia, the air fills with a familiar—and often overwhelming—buzz. This symphony of sound is produced by cicadas, millions of which emerge from years of underground dormancy to announce their presence. For many first-time visitors, the sudden roar can feel like the world is ending, but understanding the cicada life cycle makes the noise a little less daunting.

The Life Cycle of Cicadas

Cicadas begin their lives as tiny eggs laid by female cicadas in the branches of trees. After about six to ten weeks, these eggs hatch, and the newly born nymphs drop to the ground. Here’s where the story gets interesting:

1. Nymph Stage (Underground): Once on the ground, the nymphs burrow deep into the soil, where they will spend the majority of their lives—sometimes up to 17 years! During this time, they feed on the sap of tree roots, growing and moulting several times as they develop. This underground phase is crucial for their growth and survival, as they are safe from many predators.

2. Emergence: As temperatures rise and conditions become favourable, nymphs tunnel back to the surface in late spring or early summer. The timing varies by species, with some emerging after several years while others have shorter life cycles.

3. Adult Stage: Once they reach the surface, cicadas moult one last time to reveal their adult forms, complete with wings. The males then begin their loud calling to attract females, creating a cacophony that can reach up to 120 decibels!

   
   

Fun Facts About Cicadas

• Record Holders: The Green Grocer (Cyclochila australasiae) and the Double Drummer (Thopha saccata) are among the loudest cicadas in the world. Their calls can be heard from great distances, making them a signature sound of Australian summers.

• Unique Life Cycles: Different cicada species have varying life spans underground. While most common cicadas emerge after 6 to 7 years, some species can take 13 to 17 years, leading to the phenomenon of “periodical cicadas” in some parts of the world.

• Mating Calls: Male cicadas produce sound by rapidly contracting their tymbals—specialised sound-producing organs. Their calls serve not only to attract females but also to establish territory.

• Cicada Cuisine: In many cultures, cicadas are considered a delicacy. While they may be loud, they’re also packed with protein and have been consumed by humans for centuries!

• Short Adult Lifespan: Once cicadas emerge as adults, they only live for about 4 to 6 weeks. This brief lifespan is dedicated to mating and laying eggs, making their time above ground feel like a summer sprint after years spent underground. It's a quick and bustling finale to a long wait—talk about making every moment count!

  
  

As cicadas fill the summer air with their symphony, new visitors may feel overwhelmed, but understanding these fascinating insects helps put the noise into perspective. So, whether you're hearing them for the first time or you’re a seasoned Aussie, embrace the buzzing chorus that signifies summer in Australia—just don’t forget your earplugs!