How to Identify Different Species of Dog-Day Cicadas

Dog-day cicadas are one of the most iconic sounds of late summer in many parts of North America. Their loud, rhythmic calls echo through woodlands, fields, and suburban backyards, signaling the height of the dog days of summer. But beyond their distinctive noise, dog-day cicadas also present a fascinating variety of species, each with unique physical and behavioral traits. Identifying these species can be a rewarding experience for naturalists, entomologists, and curious outdoor enthusiasts alike.

In this article, we will explore how to identify different species of dog-day cicadas by examining their physical characteristics, geographic distribution, seasonal activity, and unique calls.

Understanding Dog-Day Cicadas

Dog-day cicadas belong to the genus Neotibicen, which encompasses large, robust cicadas native primarily to eastern North America. Unlike periodical cicadas (Magicicada species) that emerge in 13- or 17-year cycles, dog-day cicadas appear annually during mid to late summer — the so-called “dog days.”

These cicadas are often mistaken for one another due to their similar appearance and overlapping habitats. However, careful observation reveals subtle differences in size, coloration patterns, wing venation, and song that can help differentiate among species.

Key Features to Look For When Identifying Dog-Day Cicada Species

1. Size and Body Shape

Dog-day cicadas typically range from 1.5 to 2 inches in length (about 3.8 to 5 cm). While size alone is not definitive for species ID, some species tend to be slightly larger or smaller than others.

• Robustness: Some species have stouter bodies with broader heads.
• Wing length: Comparing wing length with body size can give clues.

2. Coloration and Markings

Color pattern is often the easiest way to distinguish dog-day cicada species:

• Green vs Brown: Some species have dominant greenish tones on their thorax and abdomen; others lean more brown or black.
• Black markings: Look for distinctive black patterns such as stripes on the thorax or spots on the wings.
• Leg color: The coloration of legs—yellowish versus black—can also help.

3. Wing Venation and Transparency

Cicada wings are transparent but show prominent veins:

• Vein color: Some species have dark veins contrasting sharply with clear wings.
• Wing shape: The shape and length of forewings vary subtly.

4. Geographic Distribution

Knowing where a cicada was found can narrow down the possibilities:

• Many Neotibicen species have overlapping ranges but some are more localized.

5. Seasonal Activity and Timing

Though all dog-day cicadas emerge in summer months, peak activity can differ by species:

• Some emerge earlier (late June), others peak later (August or September).

6. The Song

Perhaps the most distinct identifier is each species’ song:

• Cicadas produce characteristic calls used for mating.
• Songs differ in pitch, rhythm, duration, and modulation.

Common Dog-Day Cicada Species and How to Identify Them

Below are some widely encountered Neotibicen species with tips on identification.

Neotibicen canicularis (Dog-Day Cicada)

Appearance:

• Medium-large size (about 1.7 inches).
• Mainly green coloration with black markings.
• Abdomen has alternating green and black stripes.
• Wings are transparent with dark veins.

Range:

• Found throughout eastern US into parts of Canada.

Song:

• A sharp “wheep wheep wheep” sound repeated rhythmically.
• Often heard mid-summer (July-August).

Neotibicen tibicen (Swamp Cicada)

Appearance:

• Slightly smaller than N. canicularis.
• Brownish body with green highlights.
• Black mottled markings on thorax.

Range:

• Prefers wet habitats like swamps and marshes across eastern US.

Song:

• A buzz-like call that rises in pitch.

Neotibicen pruinosus (Scissor-Grinder Cicada)

Appearance:

• Large robust body (up to 2 inches).
• Green thorax with bold black lines forming a “V” shape.
• Abdomen mostly dark with some green accents.

Range:

• Midwestern US including Ohio, Indiana, Illinois.

Song:

• Loud continuous buzzing sound reminiscent of a scissors grinder.

Neotibicen lyrata (Lyre Cicada)

Appearance:

• Named for lyre-shaped black markings on thorax.
• Generally darker overall with muted greens and browns.

Range:

• Southeastern US.

Song:

• Complex series of pulsating buzzes mixed with trills.

Neotibicen tibicen tibicen vs Neotibicen tibicen australis (Subspecies Distinction)

Sometimes subspecies are differentiated by subtle variations in markings or song dialects within the same species range.

Tips for Field Identification of Dog-Day Cicadas

Use a Good Guidebook or App

Field guides dedicated to cicadas or insects of your region will provide photos and descriptions to compare specimens you find.

Apps like iNaturalist allow uploading photos for community identification help.

Photograph Carefully

Take clear photos from multiple angles showing:

• Top view for body coloration.
• Close up on wings for vein patterns.
• Side view for body shape.

Record Their Calls

Use your smartphone to record the call if possible—this can be key since many visual IDs overlap between species.

Observe Habitat

Note whether it’s a dry forest area, swampy land, urban park, or edge of field—some cicadas prefer specific environments.

Avoid Handling Excessively

Cicadas are delicate; try not to damage wings or legs when capturing for inspection.

Conclusion

Identifying different species of dog-day cicadas requires attention to detail across multiple factors including size, coloration patterns, wing features, geographic location, seasonal timing, and especially the unique calls each species produces. By combining these clues through careful observation and research tools like guides or apps, you can become adept at distinguishing these fascinating summer singers in nature’s orchestra.

The next time you hear that loud buzzing chorus during a hot July afternoon, take a moment to look closely—you might just spot a Scissor-Grinder or identify the sharp “wheep” call of a true Dog-Day Cicada! Happy cicada hunting!