Cicadas have recently captured public attention with large emergences in some parts of the country. Many people wonder if these insects are also present in Florida. While Florida is indeed home to cicadas, the types found here differ from the widely publicized periodical broods. Understanding these differences helps clarify what to expect from these unique insects in the Sunshine State.
Are Cicadas Found in Florida?
Cicadas are found throughout Florida. The state hosts about 19 species. However, Florida’s cicadas are primarily “annual” cicadas, meaning adult cicadas are observed every year.
Florida does not experience the mass, synchronized emergences of periodical cicadas, which appear in enormous numbers every 13 or 17 years in other eastern states. While other states may see these large, rare emergences, Florida’s cicada populations emerge in smaller, annual numbers. This distinction means Floridians will not encounter the overwhelming swarms sometimes reported in other regions.
Common Cicada Species in Florida
Florida is home to a variety of cicada species. Some commonly encountered types include “Dog-day” cicadas, which are large-bodied insects with colors ranging from brown to green.
The Olympic Scrub Cicada (Diceroprocta olympusa) is another widespread species in Florida, characterized by black, brown, and green coloration with a frosted white underside. The Hieroglyphic Cicada (Neocicada hieroglyphica) is known for its green and brown body with black markings that resemble hieroglyphs.
While these species are termed “annual” because adults emerge yearly, individual cicadas still have multi-year life cycles underground. Their yearly appearance is due to overlapping generations, ensuring some adults emerge each summer.
Florida Cicada Life Cycle and Sounds
Florida’s cicadas follow a life cycle that spans several years, mostly underground. A female cicada lays her eggs in tree branches. Once hatched, nymphs drop to the ground and burrow into the soil.
Underground, nymphs feed on tree root sap, molting as they grow. After several years, mature nymphs emerge from the soil, climbing onto tree trunks or structures to molt into winged adults, leaving shed exoskeletons. Adults live only a few weeks, focusing on mating and egg-laying.
The familiar loud buzzing sound is produced exclusively by males to attract mates. They create this sound using specialized drum-like tymbals on their abdomen. The sounds can vary by species, ranging from a continuous drone to a high-pitched whine. While generally active during the day, cicadas may call into the night under certain conditions, such as high temperatures or artificial light.
Cicadas’ Role in the Florida Ecosystem
Cicadas play a role in Florida’s ecosystem. They provide a food source for animals like birds, reptiles, and small mammals during their brief adult stage. This provides a seasonal boost to predator populations.
Beyond serving as prey, cicadas contribute to soil health. As nymphs, their underground burrowing aerates the soil, improving water and air penetration to plant roots.
While nymphs feed on root sap and adults on tree sap, they generally do not significantly harm healthy, mature trees or agricultural crops. Any twig damage from egg-laying is usually minor and poses no threat to established trees.