| Scientific name | Magicicada septendecim |
|---|---|
| Group | True Bugs |
| Size | 25–33 mm (up to about 1.3 in) |
| Colors | Black, Orange and Red |
| Legs | 6 legs |
| Wings | Yes |
| Where found | Trees or shrubs and Woods or trails |
| Most active | Summer |
| Bites | No |
| Stings | No |
| Risk level | Harmless |
How to identify it
The periodical cicada is a large member of the true bugs group. Piercing, straw-like beaks and wings that overlap in an X on the back. Check for these three features:
- Black body with bright red eyes
- Orange-veined clear wings
- Emerges in huge numbers, leaving holes in the soil and empty shells
About this bug
A black cicada with red eyes and orange wing veins that emerges by the millions every 13 or 17 years. Males fill forests with a loud, pulsing chorus.
You'll usually find periodical cicadas on trees and shrubs and in woods and along trails. They are most active in summer.
Is it dangerous?
Cicadas don't bite or sting; egg-laying can damage branch tips on young trees.
Our rating: Harmless, meaning it poses no real threat to people, pets or property.
When you'll see periodical cicadas
Periodical Cicadas are most active in summer. Summer heat speeds up development, so populations can grow quickly.
Typical places to check: trees or shrubs and woods or trails.
About true bugs
The periodical cicada is one of the true bugs. True bugs have piercing, straw-like mouthparts used to suck plant sap or, in a few species, blood. They develop through gradual metamorphosis: nymphs look like small, wingless adults and molt several times as they grow. Many release strong odors from scent glands when threatened.
Because nymphs look like adults, you'll often see mixed sizes of the same bug together, which is a good sign that a population is breeding nearby.
Should you get rid of it?
No control is needed. Periodical Cicadas are not pests, and many help by eating other insects or pollinating plants. If one is indoors, move it outside with a cup and a sheet of paper.
Bugs that look similar
Group: Periodical Cicada belongs to true bugs, while cicada killer belongs to bees & wasps. Piercing, straw-like beaks and wings that overlap in an X on the back.
Group: Periodical Cicada belongs to true bugs, while spotted lanternfly belongs to other insects. Piercing, straw-like beaks and wings that overlap in an X on the back.
Frequently asked questions
What does a periodical cicada look like?
Black body with bright red eyes. Adults measure 25–33 mm (up to about 1.3 in).
Does the periodical cicada bite or sting?
It does not bite. It does not sting. Cicadas don't bite or sting; egg-laying can damage branch tips on young trees.
Where do periodical cicadas live?
Periodical Cicadas live on trees and shrubs and in woods and along trails.
When are periodical cicadas most active?
Mostly in summer.