Quick Solutions for Reducing Noise from Double Drummer Cicadas

The double drummer cicada, known scientifically as Thopha saccata, is one of the loudest insects in the world. Native to Australia, this remarkable insect produces a distinctive, intense buzzing sound that can reach up to 120 decibels. While fascinating from a biological perspective, their noise can be a significant nuisance in residential areas during peak seasons. If you’re struggling with the overwhelming sound of double drummer cicadas around your home or workplace, this article provides quick and practical solutions to help reduce their noise and regain your peace.

Understanding Double Drummer Cicada Noise

Before diving into solutions, it’s essential to understand why double drummer cicadas are so noisy. Male cicadas produce their characteristic sound using specialized structures called tymbals located on their abdomen. These tymbals rapidly buckle in and out, creating a loud, high-pitched buzzing sound used primarily to attract females.

The double drummer cicada amplifies this sound through its large, hollow abdomen, making it one of the loudest insect noises on Earth. During mating season, typically in the summer months, hundreds or even thousands of these cicadas can gather in one area, creating an almost continuous wall of sound.

Quick Physical Barriers

1. Window and Door Sealing

One of the fastest ways to reduce cicada noise inside your home is to prevent the sound from entering. Cicada calls are airborne sounds that can travel through gaps around windows and doors.

• Weatherstripping: Use adhesive weatherstripping strips around window and door frames to seal any gaps.
• Door Sweeps: Install door sweeps at the bottom of exterior doors to block noise seepage.
• Double Glazing: If possible, upgrading windows to double-glazed units can significantly decrease external noise levels.

2. Soundproof Curtains

Heavy, dense curtains designed specifically for soundproofing can absorb some of the noisy vibrations caused by cicadas outside. Look for curtains made from materials like velvet or multi-layered fabrics with noise-reducing qualities.

• Hang curtains over windows facing areas where cicadas congregate.
• Keep them closed during peak activity hours (usually mid-morning to mid-afternoon).

3. Outdoor Noise Barriers

Creating physical barriers outdoors can help reduce noise reaching your living spaces.

• Fencing: Solid wooden fences at least six feet tall can block some sound waves.
• Plants: Dense hedges or thick shrubbery planted near homes act as natural sound buffers.
• Screens: Outdoor noise-reducing screens made from materials like bamboo or lattice can break up sound waves.

Environmental Management

1. Reduce Cicada Attractants

Cicadas are attracted to certain types of trees, especially eucalyptus and other native Australian species where they lay eggs and feed on sap.

• Tree Maintenance: Prune or remove trees heavily infested with cicadas if possible.
• Plant Selection: Avoid planting new trees known to attract double drummers near your home.
• Tree Covers: Use protective netting around smaller trees during peak seasons to deter laying eggs.

2. Soil Management

Cicada nymphs spend years underground feeding on root sap before emerging as adults. Certain soil modifications may discourage large populations:

• Moisture Control: Avoid overwatering lawns near trees favored by cicadas.
• Soil Disturbance: Periodically aerate soil to disrupt nymph development cycles (though this is only a long-term strategy).

Noise Masking Techniques

1. White Noise Machines

Using white noise machines indoors helps mask the cicada sounds by producing consistent ambient sounds like static, rain, or ocean waves.

• Position white noise units near problem windows or walls.
• Use models with adjustable volume controls for comfort.

2. Fans or Air Conditioners

Running fans or air conditioning units can create a background hum that drowns out cicada calls.

• Portable fans can be placed in bedrooms or living rooms.
• This method also has the added benefit of cooling your home during hot summer months when cicadas are most active.

3. Music and Audio Playback

Playing music softly indoors reduces perceived annoyance caused by cicada noise.

• Choose calming instrumental music or nature sounds.
• Use headphones if you want personalized control without disturbing others.

Behavioral Adjustments

1. Timing Activities Around Cicada Cycles

Double drummer cicadas usually become most active during daylight hours between late morning and early afternoon.

• Plan outdoor activities early in the morning or late evening when noise levels are lower.
• Close windows and doors during peak periods if you want a quieter indoor environment.

2. Temporary Relocation During Peak Season

For those particularly sensitive to noise, short-term relocation might be an option:

• Stay with friends or family during peak emergence times.
• Rent accommodations away from heavily infested areas if possible.

Professional and Technological Solutions

1. Acoustic Panels and Soundproofing Installation

If you live in an area with persistent cicada noise problems year after year:

• Consider installing professional acoustic panels inside rooms facing noisy exteriors.
• Hire contractors specializing in soundproofing solutions for windows, walls, and ceilings.

2. Ultrasonic Repellents (With Caution)

Some claim ultrasonic devices deter insects by emitting high-frequency sounds inaudible to humans but uncomfortable for bugs.

• There is limited scientific evidence regarding effectiveness against double drummer cicadas.
• Use these devices with realistic expectations and test small areas first before investing heavily.

Natural Predators Encouragement

Encouraging natural predators of cicadas is an eco-friendly way to reduce their population and subsequent noise:

• Birds such as kookaburras and magpies feed on adult cicadas.
• Bats consume flying insects including emerging adult cicadas at dusk.

Creating bird-friendly environments with feeders or bat houses may increase predator presence locally.

Summary: Combining Multiple Strategies for Best Results

No single method will completely eliminate double drummer cicada noise due to their sheer volume and numbers during mating season. However, combining several approaches will significantly reduce disturbance:

1. Seal cracks around windows/doors + install heavy curtains
2. Establish outdoor barriers using fences and plants
3. Modify environment by pruning trees and managing soil moisture
4. Use white noise machines and fans indoors
5. Adjust behavior by scheduling activities outside peak times
6. Consider professional acoustic treatments if needed
7. Encourage natural predators naturally controlling populations

By applying these quick solutions thoughtfully, you can reclaim quiet without harming these fascinating insects that play important ecological roles in Australia’s natural landscape.

Double drummer cicadas are a remarkable example of nature’s intensity—but that doesn’t mean you have to endure constant buzzing without relief. Implement these strategies now for a more peaceful summer while still appreciating the curious world of these noisy neighbors from afar!